The number of people infected with a winter vomiting bug in England has soared, according to new figures. Norovirus cases are running 34% higher than the five-season average prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Most of the new cases are aged 65 and over, according to a UK Health Security Agency report. The cases cover the two weeks up to January 8 and were mostly from people living in care homes.
Norovirus, also known as winter vomiting disease, causes gastroenteritis and is highly infectious. The virus is easily transmitted through contact with infected individuals from one person to another.
Outbreaks are common in semi-enclosed environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools and cruise ships and can also occur in restaurants and hotels.
The virus is usually mild and lasts for 1 to 2 days. Symptoms include vomiting, projectile vomiting, diarrhoea and fever. Most people make a full recovery within a couple of days but it can be dangerous for the very young and elderly people.
Figures show the levels of the virus were 'unusually low' from March 2019 to 2020. However, according to the UKHSA higher levels are likely to continue into the Spring.
Dr Lesley Larkin, surveillance lead, gastrointestinal infections and food safety (One Health) division at the UK Health Security Agency, told The Sun: "Laboratory reports of norovirus have increased in recent weeks and are about a third higher than we would typically see at this time of year."
She advised those who believe they have the illness should not be going to work and sick children should be kept off school for at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared. She said anyone who thinks they have it should avoid visiting hospitals or care homes.
Check if you have norovirus
According to the NHS the symptoms of norovirus are:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
- a high temperature
- a headache
- aching arms and legs
The symptoms start suddenly within 1 to 2 days of being infected.
How to treat norovirus yourself
You can usually treat yourself or your child at home.
The most important thing is to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.
You will usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.
How norovirus is spread
Norovirus can spread very easily.
You can catch norovirus from:
- close contact with someone with norovirus
- touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them, then touching your mouth
- eating food that's been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. Alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.
