GP says 'stay home' as new variant of 'extremely contagious' virus rises

A GP with 25 years' experience has outlined the symptoms of norovirus as a new strain rises. According to AXA Health, cases of the vomiting bug have doubled on last year.

Norovirus cases are continuing to rise, as a new variant of the virus has been identified in the UK. The ‘Kawasaki bug’, which was first identified in Kawasaki, Japan, in 2014, has quickly become a dominant virus across the UK in recent months, accounting for 70% of all cases.

Dr John Burke, chief medical officer at AXA Health, who has been a GP for more than a quarter of a century, has shared his expertise on how to prevent the spread of norovirus this winter as well as the six key symptoms to be aware of with the Kawasaki strain on the rise.

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Dr Burke said: “Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that spreads through contact and can cause sickness and diarrhoea for those infected. Often referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ cases of Norovirus soar over autumn and winter as more people spend time indoors, in close proximity to each other.”

Six symptoms of norovirus

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• High temperature

• Headaches

• Exhaustion

How to relieve symptoms of norovirus

Symptoms of norovirus can usually be managed at home and typically subside after a few days once the virus passes through the body. Over-the-counter medicines can be used to reduce symptoms of Norovirus and you can seek advice online or from your local pharmacist.

Dr Burke said: “Try to keep your meals bland while you're unwell with norovirus, to avoid further upsetting your stomach. If you are struggling to keep food down, try small amounts of easily digestible foods such as toast and crackers.

“With any illness that causes sickness, it’s really important to maintain fluid levels while unwell to prevent dehydration. Our bodies lose a lot of fluids through vomiting and diarrhoea therefore, you must be regularly drinking clear fluids and electrolytes when you are unwell with Norovirus.

“When infected with norovirus, rest is essential for a quick recovery. It’s best to ensure that you are giving your body adequate time (a minimum of 48 hours) to rest and recover from the virus before returning back to work or school.“

Preventing the spread of norovirus

If you become infected with norovirus it's essential to practise proper hygiene and cleanliness. To avoid spreading the virus further thoroughly disinfect any surfaces you come into contact with while infected and sterilise any utensils, plates or cups that you use whilst unwell.

When infected with norovirus it is crucial that you avoid preparing or touching food or drinks for other people to avoid contamination. Norovirus is extremely contagious, so if you become infected you will need to avoid contact with the public for a minimum of 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided.

Staying at home while unwell with norovirus is crucial for minimising the further spread of the virus. The first vaccine for norovirus is currently being trialled in the UK and offers hope for the future against the highly contagious winter stomach bug.