The signs you could have nasty bug sweeping across the UK

A nasty bug is sweeping its way across the UK and leaving people bed bound, with Brits being alerted to the main symptoms. Cases of norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, are on the rise.

Medical experts have now issued some advice about the main symptoms and steps to take to try to avoid the bug. Despite their similarities, norovirus and food poisoning are often confused due to similar symptoms like diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting, the Express reports.

Niamh McMillan, pharmacy superintendent at Superdrug advises: "Norovirus and food poisoning are easy to confuse as the symptoms are almost identical".

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Symptoms of norovirus include:

• severe nausea

• diarrhoea

• stomach cramps

• vomiting

"Norovirus is the most common type of virus which causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Norovirus is also referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ due to its prevalence during the colder months, however it can be caught at any time of the year. But when it comes to food poisoning, this illness is caused by eating food that has been contaminated by harmful bacteria, parasites or viruses which then irritates and infects your digestive system,” explains Niamh.

There are a few key differences between norovirus and food poisoning. The expert explains that the "first signs of norovirus will appear between 12 hours to eight days. Ongoing diarrhoea and vomiting are the most common signs, however you may also experience headaches and light headedness".

When it comes to food poisoning, the effects are much quicker and often appear within a two to six-hour time-frame of eating the contaminated food. Common symptoms of food poisoning include fever, loss of appetite, aches and chills.

In addition to washing your hands thoroughly and ensuring your food is stored and cooked correctly, norovirus can be transmitted by coming into contact with someone suffering from the virus, contaminated surfaces, food and water. A person suffering from norovirus is most contagious from the moment they start feeling to at least three days after recovery.

The NHS warns that "alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus". You should however seek further medical advice if norovirus or food poisoning symptoms worsen, including blood within diarrhoea, high temperature and if you can’t keep fluids down, the expert warns.