How long does norovirus last as cases of the winter vomiting bug surge 50% higher than average
People are being urged to take simple steps to help stop the spread 🤢
- Norovirus cases have continued to surge.
- Cases are now more than 50% higher than average for the same time last year.
- The UKHSA is urging people to take simple steps to stop the spread and protect the most vulnerable.
Norovirus is continuing to surge, after the latest data from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) found that cases are more than 50% than average for the same two-week period last year.
Also known as the “winter vomiting bug”, the stomach virus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact. Cases are particularly high amongst those aged 65 and over and in hospital settings, with the UKHSA urging anyone with symptoms to avoid attending hospital appointments or visiting patients.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus cases have remained high in recent weeks, particularly among older people aged 65 and over.
“Outbreaks in hospitals have also increased, so it’s important to remember the simple steps we can all take to stop this nasty bug spreading, particularly washing our hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so do not rely on these alone.”
What is norovirus?
Also known as the “winter vomiting bug”, norovirus can cause illness at any time of the year. The stomach bug is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact, making outbreaks in nurseries or hospital settings common.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
Norovirus symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads easily through close contact, with whole households often falling ill.
To prevent the spread of norovirus in your home, the UKHSA recommends that you wash your hands often with warm, soapy water and use bleach-based products to clean surfaces, do not prepare food for others if you have symptoms and remember that alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against norovirus.
How long does norovirus last?
Norovirus symptoms typically last between two and three days; however, it can cause complications such as dehydration in young children, those with a weakened immune system and older adults, which may require hospital treatment.
You can still pass on the virus even after symptoms have resolved. It’s important not to go to work, send children to school or nursery, or visit vulnerable people for up to 48 hours after your last symptoms.
Amy said: “If you or your child has diarrhoea and vomiting, do not return to work or send them to school or nursery until 48 hours after 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 infecting those most vulnerable.”
It’s been a worrying time for parents with baby formula recalls. You can find out more about the full list of recalled products and the signs and symptoms of cereulide poisoning.