As cases of the highly infectious norovirus continue to rise in the UK, the HSE has issued advice on the best way to stop the spread and the symptoms to look out for.
Norovirus is a virus that is more commonly called the winter vomiting bug, despite the name you can catch it any time of the year, however. It spreads very easily and very quickly from person to person.
The virus is the most common cause of infectious diarrhoea in Ireland as well as in most other countries.
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This week, in the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has put out a warning as cases in the country are “currently the highest we have seen at this time of year in over a decade.”
While there has not been a significant outbreak in Ireland, the HSE has still issued advice on its website about the symptoms to look out for, and the best way to stop the spread as cases continue to rise in our closest neighbour.
Here is everything you need to know:
Symptoms to look out for
Norovirus does not affect everyone in the same way, although there are some common symptoms that most people seem to have, according to the HSE some of the most common symptoms include diarrhoea and nausea.
However, while some people get diarrhoea, others may get both diarrhoea and vomiting. People may also feel a bit off and lose their appetite, while others may feel like they are about to throw up but may never vomit.
Other commonly reported symptoms are stomach pain, cramps, aches, pains and low energy. The illness can also make you feel very miserable. Often, people will begin to feel better in just a day or two, while others never become ill at all.
How to prevent norovirus
While it is not always possible to avoid getting the virus, the HSE has issued some advice on how to stop the spread of the virus, such as:
- Stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed. You should also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time.
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Do not rely on alcohol hand gels, as they do not kill the virus.
- Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. It's best to use a bleach-based household cleaner.
- Wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash to ensure the virus is killed.
- Don't share towels and flannels.
- Flush away any infected poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area.
- Avoid eating raw, unwashed produce.
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