Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Norovirus Cases Rise In The UK: How To Avoid Catching The Winter Vomiting Bug

norovirus case rise in uk

Winter creates the perfect setting for coughs, colds, and stomach bugs. With people spending longer hours indoors, infections pass from person to person more easily. Right now, one virus in particular is spreading fast across the UK. 

<span>Norovirus</span>, often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is circulating widely. Several NHS trusts have announced a “critical incident” after a sharp rise in hospital admissions linked to norovirus and flu. A critical incident is declared when Accident and emergency departments are no longer able to provide all services safely. 

With cases climbing this winter, many are asking the same question: how can you protect yourself from catching the winter vomiting bug?

Norovirus is one of several viruses that infect the gut and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These symptoms can continue for a few days and, in some cases, may lead to severe dehydration. Outbreaks are often reported in settings like cruise ships, nurseries, and care homes. You may have heard it called the “cruise ship virus.” These environments make it easier for the virus to spread because people are in close contact and often share food and drink sources.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Norovirus Symptoms</span> To Take Note Of</h2>

Symptoms of norovirus typically appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). People may experience repeated bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea throughout the day, with symptoms usually lasting one to three days.

<ul><li>Nausea and vomiting, often sudden and intense.</li><li>Diarrhoea with loose, watery stools.</li><li>Abdominal pain, including cramps and discomfort.</li><li>Body aches, such as muscle pain and general weakness.</li><li>Headaches.</li><li>A mild fever.</li></ul>

<h2>Norovirus: How Can You Avoid Getting The Winter Vomiting Bug?</h2>

Try not to eat food prepared by anyone who is unwell or has recently been sick, although this is not always easy to manage. One of the most effective precautions is regular handwashing. Clean your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially at key moments.

A useful habit is to wash your hands before putting anything in your mouth. This becomes even more important in group settings or if you are near someone who is ill.

If norovirus is a concern, make sure to wash your hands before eating in these situations:

<ul><li>At shared meals, after serving dishes have been passed around and you have filled your plate.</li><li>While snacking, if you are using shared utensils or pouring drinks from a communal bottle.</li><li>After shaking hands when greeting people at gatherings involving food or drinks.</li><li>In restaurants, after touching shared items such as menus or buffet and salad bar utensils.</li><li>At work, if you are eating while using a computer or shared equipment.</li><li>If washing your hands is not possible before handling food, it may be safer to eat using utensils only.</li></ul>

With proper care, most people bounce back from norovirus without complications. Staying well hydrated, getting enough rest, and managing symptoms should be your focus, while strict hygiene and isolation help stop the virus from spreading to others.

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Winter creates the perfect setting for coughs, colds, and stomach bugs. With people spending longer hours indoors, infections pass from person to person more easily. Right now, one virus in particular is spreading fast across the UK. Norovirus, often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is circulating widely. Several NHS trusts have announced a “critical incident” after a sharp rise in hospital admissions linked to norovirus and flu. A critical incident is declared when Accident and emergency departments are no longer able to provide all services safely. With cases climbing this winter, many are asking the same question: how can you protect yourself from catching the winter vomiting bug?What Is Norovirus?Norovirus is one of several viruses that infect the gut and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. These symptoms can continue for a few days and, in some cases, may lead to severe dehydration. Outbreaks are often reported in settings like cruise ships, nurseries, and care homes. You may have heard it called the “cruise ship virus.” These environments make it easier for the virus to spread because people are in close contact and often share food and drink sources.Norovirus Symptoms To Take Note OfSymptoms of norovirus typically appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). People may experience repeated bouts of vomiting and diarrhoea throughout the day, with symptoms usually lasting one to three days.As per the NHS, other symptoms include:Nausea and vomiting, often sudden and intense.Diarrhoea with loose, watery stools.Abdominal pain, including cramps and discomfort.Body aches, such as muscle pain and general weakness.Headaches.A mild fever.Norovirus: How Can You Avoid Getting The Winter Vomiting Bug?Try not to eat food prepared by anyone who is unwell or has recently been sick, although this is not always easy to manage. One of the most effective precautions is regular handwashing. Clean your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially at key moments.A useful habit is to wash your hands before putting anything in your mouth. This becomes even more important in group settings or if you are near someone who is ill.If norovirus is a concern, make sure to wash your hands before eating in these situations:At shared meals, after serving dishes have been passed around and you have filled your plate.While snacking, if you are using shared utensils or pouring drinks from a communal bottle.After shaking hands when greeting people at gatherings involving food or drinks.In restaurants, after touching shared items such as menus or buffet and salad bar utensils.At work, if you are eating while using a computer or shared equipment.If washing your hands is not possible before handling food, it may be safer to eat using utensils only.With proper care, most people bounce back from norovirus without complications. Staying well hydrated, getting enough rest, and managing symptoms should be your focus, while strict hygiene and isolation help stop the virus from spreading to others.