Norovirus: the 7 ways to treat symptoms of winter vomiting bug as cases nearly double
Alcohol based hand gels don’t kill norovirus 🤢
- Norovirus cases have increased by 47%.
- Known as the winter vomiting bug, it causes unpleasant symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
- Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U, shares seven tips on how to treat the symptoms of norovirus.
Cases of norovirus have almost doubled, according to the latest data from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA).
Known as the winter vomiting bug, norovirus causes unpleasant symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Norovirus cases have increased by 47% in the first two weeks of 2026, compared to the previous two-week period ending December 28. Infections remain highest among those aged 65 years and older, with outbreaks in hospitals also on the rise.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We have seen a notable increase in norovirus cases in recent weeks among those aged 65 years and over, with more hospital outbreaks also being reported. While this is still within expected levels, there are simple steps that people can take to reduce the spread of norovirus and ensure levels don’t rise further.
“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.”
Why does norovirus spread so easily?
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact. Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U, explained why and also shared seven tips on how to treat the symptoms of norovirus.
Jason said: “Norovirus spreads much more easily than many people think. It only takes a tiny amount of the virus to make you sick, and it can survive on surfaces for days. As cases continue to rise, it’s important to go beyond basic hygiene and adopt more targeted measures to protect yourself and those around you.
“People often think of norovirus as a quick ‘in and out’ bug, but it’s incredibly stubborn and easy to pass on. As a Pharmacist, I look at norovirus in two ways: how we stop it spreading, and how we can support our body while the virus runs its course. There’s no cure for the virus itself, but there’s a lot we can do to make symptoms more manageable and reduce complications like dehydration.”
Here are seven ways to help treat the symptoms of norovirus:
Rehydration
Dehydration is the biggest medical risk with norovirus. Jason advises that drinking electrolytes is better than plain water because they replace the salts in your body.
Dose fluids like medication
Take small sips every 5-10 minutes rather than quickly drinking large drinks as this will reduce the risk of vomiting and improve fluid intake.
Pain relief
When you’re able to keep fluids down, paracetamol is the safest option for symptoms like fever, headaches, and body aches. Jason recommends avoiding ibuprofen if you’re dehydrated or vomiting heavily, as it can irritate your stomach and put strain on your kidneys.
Use anti-diarrhoea medicines with caution
Medicines like loperamide can reduce diarrhoea, but they’re not always recommended because diarrhoea helps clear the virus. They may be useful for short-term control if you need to travel, but should be avoided for children or if you have a fever or blood in your stool.
Anti-sickness options
For severe nausea, a pharmacist can advise on anti-sickness medications such as antiemetics. In persistent cases, a GP may prescribe medication to help control vomiting.
Eat little and lightly
When your appetite returns, start with bland foods like toast, crackers, bananas, and rice. Avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy foods until your symptoms settle.
Rest is treatment
Making sure you rest will speed up your recovery and reduce any complications.
Jason added: “With the right support, most people recover well from norovirus. Think of hydration, rest and symptom control as your treatment plan, and infection control as your prevention plan. When both are done properly, you protect yourself and everyone around you.”
Cases of norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, are on the rise. You can find out more information at NHS.UK.