Urgent warning as norovirus cases are 91% higher than normal – 2 tips to avoid bug
NOROVIRUS cases are nearly twice as high as normal, official data show.
The vomiting bug was spotted 797 times in the two weeks ending March 19, 91 per cent higher more times than the five-year average, UK Health Security Agency figures revealed.
Children aged under four and adults over 65 saw the highest rates of the virus, which has hit huge numbers this year.
It’s important to note that norovirus cases aren’t always reported, meaning the most recent surge could be far higher.
The average cases reached 840 earlier this month, which was the highest number since reporting began for the current virus season in November.
Separate NHS data also showed the number of hospital beds taken up by patients with norovirus symptoms was 554 in the week ending March 26.
It was more than twice the same figure last year, which was 240.
NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said the health service has “worryingly” seen high numbers in hospitals.
He said: “Thousands of patients are still in hospital every day with winter viruses, including double the number of norovirus cases compared to this time last year.”
The UKHSA previously warned most outbreaks are taking place in care homes, so it is important to take steps to reduce the spread.
Experts urged Brits to avoid hospitals and care until at least two days after symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea, stop.
They added using hand gels does not kill the virus, so hand washing with warm soap and water is best.
The 6 norovirus signs you must know
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 gels do 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.
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