Six symptoms as UKHSA says cases of nasty winter virus double average

The UK Health Security Agency says cases of the nasty winter vomiting bug norovirus are now almost double the average for the this time of year and the surge is being driven by the Kawasaki strain. The UKHSA says that to date, most of the samples sent to the lab have been identified as norovirus genogroup 2 GII.17 - commonly known as Kawasaki Norovirus.

So far this year almost 3,000 cases of norovirus have been confirmed in lab tests, well over double the five-year average, and experts say the number is the 'tip of the iceberg; of those infected as most people just stay home ill and never get a test.

A UKHSA spokesman said: "It is likely that multiple factors contributed to the observed increase in laboratory reports, such as ongoing changes to the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic or changes in testing and reporting to national surveillance. Further work to understand the drivers of the increased reporting is underway."

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They warned: "Transmission is mostly via contact with an infected person, but norovirus can also be spread by consumption of food contaminated with the virus or contact with contaminated surfaces. Norovirus transmission is influenced by many factors including, but not limited to, whether the person has been infected with norovirus recently, community contact patterns and the time of the year. Infections peak in the colder months and therefore norovirus is most prevalent during winter."

Dr John Burke, Chief Medical Officer at AXA Health 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 KEY SYMPTOMS OF NOROVIRUS

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• High temperature

• Headaches

• Exhaustion

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 and keep your meals bland whilst 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 whilst 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 whilst 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 with Norovirus you will need to avoid contact with the public for a minimum of 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided.

Staying at home whilst 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.