Health officials in the UK have issued a 48-hour warning after a rise in cases of an “unpleasant” winter bug. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged people to stay home for two days after symptoms subside to help stop the spread of norovirus, commonly known as the “winter vomiting bug.” The virus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea, spreads easily, particularly in colder months.Recent data shows that cases have started to climb across England in recent weeks. The NHS has supported the UKHSA’s advice, reminding people to remain at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms clear to avoid infecting others.What Is The Winter Bug Spreading In UK?Norovirus is a highly contagious group of viruses that cause sudden vomiting and diarrhea. It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, and is known to peak during the colder months. In fact, it’s the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States.The virus was first identified in 1968 after an outbreak in an elementary school in Norwalk, Ohio, which gave it its original name, the Norwalk virus.Norovirus vs. the Stomach FluAlthough often called the “stomach flu,” norovirus is not related to influenza. The flu virus affects the respiratory system, while norovirus targets the digestive tract, causing gastroenteritis.Types of NorovirusNorovirus belongs to the Caliciviridae family and includes 10 groups with around 48 known types. Among these, the GII.4 strain is the one most often linked to widespread outbreaks.Unique Symptoms of NorovirusHere are some less-covered but important unique symptoms of Norovirus infection to watch for:A sudden, intense onset of vomiting and watery diarrhoea, often without warning.Rapid loss of appetite and stomach cramps that may begin only 12 to 48 hours after exposure.Feeling unwell with low-grade fever, head or body aches, chills or muscle pain that accompany the GI symptoms.Signs of dehydration early on, such as dark urine, dry mouth, faintness on standing, or crying with few or no tears especially in children, older adults or immune-weakened people.Unusual how quickly it hits and how short-lived it often is: many people recover in 1-3 days, yet they can still spread the virus for days after symptoms stopTo help stop the virus from spreading, the NHS has urged people with symptoms to take extra care, as per NHS. Those affected should:Avoid going to work, school, or nursery until at least 48 hours after their last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea.Refrain from visiting hospitals, care homes, or other vulnerable settings during the same period.These precautions are crucial because norovirus remains highly contagious even after symptoms appear to have cleared.How to Stop Norovirus from SpreadingContaminated food and water can also transmit the virus. Along with staying home while you’re unwell, the NHS recommends taking the following precautions to reduce the risk of passing it on:Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet or changing nappies, alcohol-based hand gels do not kill norovirus.Clean your hands before handling food, whether you’re cooking, serving, or eating.Launder soiled clothes and bedding separately at 60°C if they’ve come into contact with vomit or stool.Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, including toilet seats, taps, flush handles, and door handles.Limit physical contact with others until you’ve been symptom-free for at least two days.
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