The NHS has issued a warning after more than a thousand adult hospital beds were “closed” each day across the service last week. The beds, service bosses said, were taken up “due to diarrhoea and vomiting, caused by bugs such as norovirus.”
People are now being urged to “please stay at home for 48 hours” if they have any norovirus symptoms. The warning comes as cases remain high across the country.
A post from the official NHS X account reads: “On average, over 1,000 adult beds were closed each day across NHS hospitals last week due to diarrhoea and vomiting, caused by bugs such as norovirus. If you have symptoms, please stay at home for 48 hours until they’ve gone.”
A follow-up post advises: “Our website can help you; check if you have norovirus, find out how to treat yourself, learn how to stop it spreading, and know when to seek advice.” Also known as the “winter vomiting bug”, norovirus can be very unpleasant, though it usually goes away after about two days.
Symptoms include feeling and/or being sick, and diarrhoea. Those suffering with norovirus may also have a high temperature, a headache, and aching arms or legs.
Symptoms usually come on within one-two days of being infected, and adults and children with norovirus can usually be self-treated at home. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.
The latest NHS guidance is to stay off work or school until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days. People should also stay away from hospitals and care homes.