Norovirus symptoms hour-by-hour in outbreak warning for highly contagious winter bug

As we embrace the seasonal shift and evenings grow darker, norovirus has joined the roster of autumn's inevitable bugs, alongside Halloween festivities, Bonfire Night plans and the routine setting back of clocks.

The UK is currently battling a virulent strain of illness, with a nationwide surge in cases leaving many feeling poorly. NHS data points out a 29 per cent rise in infections from September 23 to October 6, which is double the numbers typically seen during this time.

Medical experts are raising the alarm over what could become a serious health predicament this winter, coining the term 'quadrupledemic'. We're facing the spread of the relatively fresh Covid variant XEC across Britain, along with expected upticks in flu rates and cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as temperatures fall.

Adding to the alarm is the threat posed by a particularly virulent form of norovirus, which could place an even greater strain on the NHS and increase hospital admissions in the coming months. In a previous statement, Dr Roger Henderson, a GP, brought attention to the severe implications these simultaneous infections can have: "When these infections overlap, they pose a heightened risk, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with existing health issues," the Mirror reported.

Identifying norovirus, often dubbed as the winter vomiting bug, is usually straightforward due to its distinct symptoms. Those afflicted by the virus can anticipate experiencing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea - the unholy trinity of norovirus indicators - among other unpleasant impacts the virus may have on one's health.

The early signs of norovirus hour-by-hour

Exposure to norovirus can happen at any moment. The virus resides in vomit and faeces, and if an infected person touches food, drink or surfaces that are later consumed or touched by another individual, they could unwittingly pass on the bug.

Contact with contaminated surfaces, such as door handles, railings or public transport grips, followed by touching your mouth before washing your hands, is a typical way of catching the virus.

Symptoms can appear as soon as 10 hours after exposure, although sickness often begins 24 to 48 hours post-exposure. Initial norovirus symptoms can be misread: some people report feeling generally tired, suffering from headaches, muscle pains and chills.

Some might experience a mild fever in the early hours as the virus starts to impact their body. Subsequent symptoms include persistent nausea for several hours, and stomach cramps.

Finally, vomiting and diarrhoea occur, and usually persist until there's nothing left inside your body to expel.

The silver lining is that norovirus typically doesn't last long, with most individuals experiencing symptoms for a maximum of one or two days. The real risk lies in dehydration, which can set in rapidly if you're unable to retain any fluids.

Signs of dehydration include dark or strong-smelling urine, sunken eyes, dizziness or light-headedness, reduced frequency of urination, and feelings of thirst accompanied by a dry mouth and lips. If these symptoms are present, it's likely you're dehydrated.

It's recommended to maintain fluid intake with small sips of water or juice, and if you're concerned about yourself or a family member - particularly infants, children, and the elderly - reach out to the NHS 111 helpline for guidance.

How can I prevent contracting norovirus?

Regrettably, there's no foolproof method to avoid exposure if you're living, commuting and working among others. However, you can minimise the risk through diligent hand hygiene: frequently wash your hands with warm water and soap, especially before meals.

If a household member contracts norovirus, cleanse any surfaces they've touched with bleach-based household cleaners, and launder any soiled clothing and bedding promptly.

Avoid letting an infected person handle food or drink meant for you or others, and steer clear of consuming from potentially contaminated sources. Unfortunately, alcohol-based hand sanitisers don't work against norovirus, so always opt to wash your hands with warm water and soap when possible.

A person who is infected will be contagious from the moment they start feeling unwell until three days after their symptoms stop, hence it's recommended to avoid going to work or socialising with others for at least 48 hours following your last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea.