Watch out for symptoms of Norovirus

Members of the public have been warned to be on the look out for symptoms of Norovirus and take sensible precautions this winter.

Norovirus, sometimes known as the ‘winter vomiting disease’ because it usually occurs during the winter months, often starts to appear in the autumn peaking during January.

It is highly contagious and the most frequent cause of infectious gastroenteritis in England and Wales. Typical symptoms are vomiting and diarrhoea.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The sickness and diarrhoea can be distressing and you can also feel unwell with a temperature, headache, aching limbs and stomach cramps. It can be very unpleasant while you have it. People suffering will feel very unwell initially but will usually improve quickly as the symptoms settle.

It is a highly infectious disease, affecting people of all ages, with symptoms usually lasting anywhere between a few hours to a couple of days. Most people do recover quickly.

Good hygiene is particularly important in preventing yourself or others from becoming infected.

A chief clinical officer Dr Mike Ions said: “People should ensure that they thoroughly wash their hands after using the toilet, and ensure that any contaminated surfaces are thoroughly disinfected after an episode of illness. Food preparation should also be avoided until three days after symptoms have disappeared.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Unfortunately there is no specific treatment for Norovirus apart from letting the illness run its course; therefore it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration especially in the very young or elderly”.

People suffering do not usually need to consult their GP unless symptoms are very bad or continue beyond 48 hours.

The NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk) can provide further advice. You can also call the NHS 111 helpline if symptoms do not quickly subside or you have additional concerns.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.