What is norovirus and what are the symptoms? – The Sun | The Sun
NOROVIRUS has a reputation for being intense.
The viral illness, sometimes called the 'winter sickness bug,' causes diarrhea and vomiting – often at the same time.
It can be very unpleasant, but rest assured, usually goes away in about two days.
As the colder months soldier on, it's important to look out for norovirus as it tends to be more common in the winter months.
The most recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA) shows that norovirus cases as rising across the country.
But what are the symptoms of norovirus and how long does it last? Here’s what you need to know about the unpleasant virus…
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is one of the most common stomach bugs in the UK and is also referred to as “the winter vomiting bug”, although it can affect people all year round.
Dr Lesley Larkin, surveillance lead, gastrointestinal infections and food safety at UKHSA, said: "Practising good hygiene is important to prevent the spread of norovirus infection.
"This includes hand washing with soap and warm water regularly and thoroughly, especially after using the toilet or an episode of illness and before eating or preparing food."
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
According to the NHS website, you are likely to have caught norovirus if you experience a sudden sick feeling, projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
The main symptoms are:
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Diarrhoea
- Being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
- A high temperature
- A headache
- Aching arms and legs
Dr Larkin added: “If you do get ill, drink plenty of fluids during that time to prevent dehydration especially in the very young, elderly or those with weakened immunity.
"Those experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting should not return to work or send unwell children to school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared and ideally should also not prepare food during this time either.
"We advise people with symptoms to avoid visiting GP surgeries and hospitals, however if they are concerned they should talk to their GP by phone or contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS choices norovirus webpage.”
How long do norovirus symptoms last?
Norovirus symptoms usually begin between 12 and 48 hours of first being infected with the bug.
Luckily, however, the virus is quite short lived with most people feeling better in two to three days.
The NHS says: "Stay off school or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 2 days. This is when you're most infectious.
"Do not visit hospitals or care homes during this time."
There are some unfortunate cases in which the virus can linger in the intestines for weeks – or even months.
And you should get advice by ringing 111 if you are still throwing up after two days, or having diarrhoea for more than seven days.
The same goes for children, and it is important to keep out for dehydration signs, especially if this isn't fixed with oral rehydration sachets.
Call 999 if you or your child's sick has blood in it, is green or yellow or looks like ground coffee. Signs like a stiff neck, pain when looking at lights or a sudden severe headache or stomach ache also warrant calling 999, the NHS says.
How does norovirus spread?
The bug is spread very easily as only takes a very small number of particles to make you sick.
It can easily contaminate food and water and can live on surfaces for some time.
You can also catch it if you are in close proximity to an infected person and they breathe on you.
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