The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning as cases of norovirus are spreading at “higher levels than usual this spring”. People are being reminded of the symptoms – including some lesser-known ones.
Anyone who comes down with the virus should stay away from work or school, as well as care homes and hospitals, for 48 hours after symptoms clear, in a bid to stop the spread. On Thursday, UKHSA posted on X, previously Twitter: “Vomiting or diarrhoea in spring?
“It could still be #Norovirus. Despite being known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, norovirus can spread all year round, and we’re seeing higher than usual levels this spring. Find out what to do to stop the spread.”
UKHSA further explains that norovirus “is able to spread easily through communities and so outbreaks are common in settings where individuals have close contact such as hospitals, care homes, schools and nurseries.” Symptoms typically begin between 12 and 48 hours after contracting the virus, with people being most contagious while symptomatic.
However, it is possible to “shed” the virus, contaminating surfaces, objects or even food, both before and after experiencing symptoms. It’s therefore important to regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and soap, and to avoid making food for others.
The UKHSA also reminds that alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against norovirus. Typical symptoms include nausea, diarrhoea, and/or vomiting.
But some with norovirus may also experience headaches, fever, and aches in their legs and arms. Any clothing or bedding that may be contaminated should be washed at 60C.
