Health chiefs issue urgent advice due to surge in number of winter vomiting bug cases

As winter approaches, health specialists are raising an alarm about the resurgence of the highly contagious norovirus, notorious for causing extensive vomiting and diarrhoea. To combat the spread of the illness, individuals showing symptoms are urged to avoid places like work, schools, and shopping centres.

Lesley Larkin, Lead Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), advised: "Norovirus cases are on the rise again as we head into winter."

She further recommended key precautions: "Take steps to avoid passing the infection on. If you have diarrhoea and/or vomiting, do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don't prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings."

Emphasising effective hygiene measures, she added: "Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don't rely on these alone."

Current statistics report a recent increase in cases of the virus following a drop during the October half-term holidays. Reported outbreaks this season exceed the five-season average by 5%, reports the Mirror.

There are likely several factors contributing to the rise in lab reports, including changes in epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and alterations in testing and reporting procedures. Symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, high temperature, abdominal pain, and aching limbs.

It's crucial to stay hydrated if you contract the virus, especially for vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems.