Warning as norovirus outbreaks in schools remain high – 6 things all parents must know
PARENTS have been warned to be on the lookout for norovirus symptoms as the bug sweeps schools.
Cases of the illness are higher than the five season average, with the highest rates being seen in those over the age of 65 and the under fives.
Just last week it was revealed that infections were at their highest in a decade, with those over 65 being most affected.
Dr Lesley Larkin, Surveillance Lead, Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety Division at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “While most outbreaks of norovirus continue to be reported in care homes, outbreaks in educational settings have returned to pre-pandemic levels in recent weeks and are particularly affecting children in early years educational settings.
“Norovirus levels continue to be very high and most reported cases are in the over 65s.
“Young children and older adults are at greater risk of developing dehydration while unwell with norovirus. Dehydration can result in hospitalisation so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids when unwell and contact NHS 111 or your GP surgery if you need advice.”
Data from the UKHSA report states that cases are 77 per cent higher than the five season average, before the Covid pandemic.
Reports in the group aged 0 to 4 years were more than double the 5-season average, the report states.
In general, cases were up seven per cent in the week up to February 26.
The 6 norovirus signs all parents must watch out for:
The symptoms of norovirus come on suddenly and the NHS states the main signs are:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- being sick (vomiting)
- you may also have a high temperature
- a headache
- aching arms and legs
Norovirus can spread very easily and you can catch it from having close contact with someone who has the bug.
Touching your mouth after touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them could also lead to you getting it.
Alcohol-based hand gel does not kill norovirus, NHS guidance warns, so washing your hands frequently with soap and water is best way to stop it from spreading.
If you or your child have norovirus, you can usually treat it at home. Make sure to have plenty of rest and avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
You’ll usually start to feel better within two to three days.
The NHS advises that you call the helpline if:
- You’re worried about your baby who is younger than 12 months
- Your child stops breast or bottle feeding while they’re ill
- You think your child under 5 might be dehydrated – signs could include fewer wet nappies
- You’ve used rehydration sachets but still have signs of dehydration
- You or your child keep being sick and can’t keep fluids down
- You or your child have bloody diarrhoea or start bleeding from the bottom
- You or your child have diarrhoea for more than 7 days or vomiting for more than 2 days
How to protect yourself from norovirus
Norovirus can be nasty, but there are ways that you can prevent you and your family catching the bug.
- Pay close attention to hygiene – wash your hands frequently, using soap and water
- Avoid close contact with people who are obviously sick
If you or members of your household are ill:
- Try to keep those with symptoms away from others until the illness has subsided for at least 48 hours
- Clean frequently – disinfect any potentially contaminated surfaces or objects with a bleach-based household cleaner or a combination of bleach and water. This includes toilets, taps, telephones, door handles and kitchen surfaces
- Wash contaminated clothing or bedding using detergent at high temperature (60C)
- Do not allow anyone who is sick to prepare food for other people
- Anyone who has symptoms should drink fluids and stay well hydrated. Consider adding rehydration salts to water. Eat plain foods (if you can manage eating).
- Seek medical attention if symptoms are not improving after 24 hours, or if concerned. This is especially important for young children and the elderly, as they are prone to rapid dehydration