NHS issues 'stay at home' alert as reports of virus 'higher than normal'

People across the UK are being warned about a rise in a particularly nasty sickness bug, which is being reported more frequently than usual for this time of year. This illness can render people housebound for days and can be easily spread if you're not aware of how to stop it.

Norovirus can affect anyone, regardless of age; you might become susceptible to this illness. It's a very contagious virus that transmits through interaction with infected individuals and contaminated surfaces.

Speaking on X, an spokesperson said: "Norovirus cases are currently higher than we normally see at this time of year. The virus can spread very easily." They continued: "Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. If you catch norovirus, stay at home and rest."

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Also known as the 'vomiting bug,' this unwelcome illness causes nausea and diarrhoea. Toughing it out can be unpleasant, but the NHS assures that most people will be better after two days.

Norovirus is often referred to as the "stomach flu" or the "stomach bug." However, norovirus illness is not connected to the flu. The flu is caused by the influenza virus, while norovirus leads to acute gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach or intestines.

You can experience norovirus illness multiple times throughout your life. This is due to the existence of various types of noroviruses.

Being infected with one type of norovirus does not guarantee protection against others. While it is possible to build immunity to certain types, the exact duration of this protection is unclear. This uncertainty might clarify why individuals of all ages frequently contract infections during norovirus outbreaks.

The NHS says: "Norovirus spreads very easily and quickly in different ways." It also says: "You can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more after you feel better."

How to tell if you have norovirus:

Typically, symptoms start between 12 to 48 hours from exposure. According to NHS guidance, people should look out for a sudden symptom such as:

• feeling sick
• being sick (vomiting)
• diarrhoea

These main signs may come with a fever, or body aches, with your stomach often bearing the brunt of it. Despite being called the winter vomiting bug, it can strike in any season. This name comes from the higher level of cases that come during the winter months. Norovirus is very contagious, but you can take steps to protect yourself and others, including:

• Wash your hands well and often.
• Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.
• Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.
• Wash laundry in hot water.
• Stay home when sick for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop.

Norovirus is often manageable at home, typically requiring treatment for the diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms. The NHS stressed that the "most important thing" is to drink "lots of fluids to avoid dehydration".

People are usually warned to avoid fruit juices and fizzy drinks since they "can make diarrhoea worse." Norovirus is highly contagious, and close contact poses a risk of infection.

It's possible to continue spreading the virus for two weeks or more after symptoms go away, so it is very important to continue some of the precautions, such as thorough handwashing with soap and water and minimising contact with others, to help curb the transmission of norovirus.

It's advised to stay away from school, nursery, or work until you've been free from vomiting and diarrhoea for at least two days. You should also avoid visiting or other vulnerable populations during this time.