Pet owners are being warned that dogs can carry norovirus - and advice has been issued on how to reduce the spread of the bug.
Dr Hilary appeared on ITV's Lorraine to give health advice to the public and explained that cases of norovirus were on the rise. Host Lorraine Kelly asked him: "Can I talk to you about norovirus?
"With having being subjected to it myself. They sent me home from work! That's never happened in my life.
"It's horrid, but it seems to be like everybody just about knows somebody who has been struck down by it." Dr Hilary replied: "Yeah, it is particularly in the over 65 years age group. We've seen an unprecedented amount and much higher levels than we've seen in 10 years.
"But it's also affecting children in schools. There's been outbreaks in schools and it's called 'the winter vomiting bug' but it doesn't just cause vomiting. The symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, feeling sick, aching arms and legs, high temperature and headache as well."
Lorraine added: "It's horrible. You just generally feel blah. But it hangs around for a while and you get tired."
The doctor said: "It's normally 48 hours but it can linger a bit longer than that for some people." Explaining how to prevent the spread of the illness, he added: "It's important to wash your hands frequently and not to go out for at least 48 hours after your symptoms are all gone.
"It's very infectious. Use soap and warm water other than alcohol gels which don't work."
Dr Hilary added that norovirus was one of the leading causes of diarrhoea in the world, reports the Liverpool Echo. He also said the bug can be present in dogs.
He said: "It's important not to let your dog lick your face. Wash your hands after clearing up their poo and make sure your dogs are vaccinated. So yes, pets can carry norovirus."
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