Households across the UK are being warned as cases of winter illness are appearing earlier and in larger numbers than usual. The highly contagious norovirus has some pretty grim symptoms, and is currently said to be “sweeping through” the country.
Typically more common during the cold winter months, and therefore known as the “winter vomiting bug”, the virus is making an early appearance despite the autumn season being fairly mild so far. The latest NHS data shows that infections have increased by 29 per cent between 23 September and 6 October, a rate that’s twice the typical level for this time of year, Birmingham Live reports.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
It can be extremely unpleasant, leaving you without the energy to do anything. The three main symptoms of this stomach bug are feeling nauseous, experiencing diarrhoea, and then actually vomiting.
Other symptoms include having a high temperature, headaches, and aches throughout your arms and legs. These symptoms can appear suddenly, usually between one and two days after exposure.
Current hospital infection rates are notably high, standing at 22% above the norm, according to officials. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) epidemiologist Amy Douglas warns: “Norovirus levels have remained higher than expected recently and cases are likely to increase.
“To help reduce the spread of the infection, if you have diarrhoea and vomiting, take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.
“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.”