How to avoid the ‘highly contagious’ winter bug spreading across the UK

A severe outbreak of the highly contagious norovirus is spreading across UK households.

Cases of the stomach bug have seen a 29% increase between September 23 and October 6, NHS data has revealed.

This double the amount expected for this time of year.

The virus causes diarrhoea and vomiting, with those infected also experiencing a fever and headache.

Thousands of Brits end up in hospital every year due to the highly contagious virus.

Dr Hilary Jones said: ‘Winter is a difficult time for many of us as the days get shorter and the weather becomes bleak, but it can make people more susceptible to serious illnesses.

‘This year, as flu, RSV and COVID cases rise earlier, the British Medical Association have warned this could be the worst winter on record for the NHS.’

Globally, it causes about 200,000 deaths annually – a quarter of which are children.

There are around 80 deaths each year from norovirus in the UK, typically older adults and immunocompromised patients.

Anyone who has symptoms are urged to avoid visiting the hospital until they have been symptom free for 48 hours.

NHS Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Christine Woodgate said in a TikTok video: ‘If you are feeling or being sick, have diarrhoea or have a temperature, headache, or aching in your arms or legs, it could be norovirus.’

The world’s first vaccine against norovirus has been trialled in UK hospitals, using the same tech employed in the Covid jab.

The new mRNA vaccine from Moderna is due to enter its final stages of testing in the next couple of weeks, with results so far indicating it prompts a ‘strong immune response’.

Chief investigator of the study Dr Patrick Moore said the lack of a vaccine currently means seriously ill people in hospital can only be treated with intravenous fluids.

He said: ‘It can affect people of all ages, and it usually peaks in the winter months in the UK… but we do see norovirus throughout the whole of the year.’

How do you avoid norovirus?

According to the NHS, washing hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop the vomiting bug from spreading.

Avoiding close contact with someone who has the virus, and eating food handled or prepared by them also limits risk.

Dr Jones also advised to cut back on alcohol consumption, keeping warm and resting.

She said: ‘Heating just one room of the house can keep you warm and help save on fuel bills, but it’s important to keep that space above 18°C.

‘During a bitter cold snap, staying warm indoors and dressing in multiple layers is essential.’

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