Norovirus symptoms: common signs of contagious winter vomiting bug - and how it is spread
Norovirus, known as the winter vomiting bug, causes unpleasant symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea and is highly contagious
Public health chiefs are urging people to take precautions to limit the spread of the highly contagious norovirus following a rise in cases.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said outbreaks of the winter vomiting bug have been increasing now that people are socialising more as coronavirus restrictions have eased.
An increase in cases have been reported in nurseries and care homes in England, with the UKHSA warning that “unusual or out-of-season increases” could be seen in the coming months.
People are being advised to stay at home and avoid visiting elderly relatives if they have symptoms.
The bug is highly infectious and can be easily transmitted through contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
It can also be spread by eating food that has been prepared or handled by someone with the virus.
Professor Saheer Gharbia, from the gastrointestinal pathogens and food safety directorate, UKHSA, said: “Norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, has been at lower levels than normal throughout the pandemic but as people have begun to mix more, the numbers of outbreaks have started to increase again.
“Stay at home if you are experiencing norovirus symptoms and do not return to work or send children to school or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have cleared.
“Please avoid visiting elderly relatives if you are unwell – particularly if they are in a care home or hospital.
“As with Covid-19 and other infectious illnesses, hand washing is really important to help stop the spread of this bug, but remember, unlike for Covid-19 alcohol, gels do not kill off norovirus so soap and water is best.”
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1. Nausea
Feeling sick is a common symptom of norovirus and this will usually pass on its own. Getting plenty of fresh air can help relieve nausea, along with drinking ginger or peppermint tea. Photo: Shutterstock
2. Vomiting
Known as the winter vomiting bug, it’s no surprise that it causes those who contract to be sick. Vomiting usually stops in one to two days in both adults and children, and is best treated by drinking lots of fluids, such as water or squash. Photo: Shutterstock
3. Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is another nasty side effect of norovirus and can last a few days. If you do suffer with this, avoid drinking fruit juice or fizzy drinks as this can make symptoms worse. Photo: Shutterstock
4. High temperature
Much like flu, norovirus can cause a high temperature and may lead to other symptoms such as chills, sweating, or warm skin. The NHS considered a high temperature to be 38C or above. Photo: Shutterstock