**Contagious Norovirus: UK Outbreak Symptoms**

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Post on Nov 01, 2024

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Contagious Norovirus: UK Outbreak Symptoms & Prevention

The UK is currently experiencing a significant outbreak of norovirus, commonly known as the "winter vomiting bug." This highly contagious virus causes unpleasant symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea, making it essential to understand how to prevent its spread and how to manage its symptoms.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, a common illness that affects the stomach and intestines. It's easily spread through close contact with an infected person, contaminated surfaces, and contaminated food and water.

Symptoms of Norovirus

Norovirus symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after infection and include:

• Sudden onset of vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Headache
• Fever
• Muscle aches

These symptoms usually last for one to three days. While most people recover fully, some individuals, particularly young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe symptoms.

How Norovirus Spreads

Norovirus is extremely contagious and can easily spread through:

• Direct contact with an infected person: This includes close contact like shaking hands or sharing utensils.
• Indirect contact: This can occur by touching contaminated surfaces like door handles, toys, or phones, and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Consuming contaminated food or water: This could happen if food is prepared by someone with norovirus or if food or water is exposed to the virus.

Prevention

While there's no specific cure for norovirus, taking steps to prevent its spread is crucial:

• Wash your hands thoroughly: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing nappies, and before eating.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces: Use a bleach-based cleaner on surfaces that may have come into contact with the virus, such as door handles, toilets, and kitchen surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals: Stay away from those with norovirus symptoms to avoid catching the virus.
• Wash contaminated laundry: Wash clothing and bedding of an infected person separately and at the hottest setting possible.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to replace the fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhoea.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most people recover from norovirus without needing medical attention. However, it's crucial to seek medical advice if you experience:

• Dehydration: Signs include dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, and sunken eyes.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhoea: If you are unable to keep fluids down or if you have frequent bouts of vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Fever that lasts for more than two days: This could indicate another infection.
• Blood in your vomit or diarrhoea: This is a sign of potential complications.

Conclusion

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause unpleasant symptoms. By following prevention measures and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can help protect yourself and others from the spread of this common illness. Remember, proper handwashing, cleaning, and hygiene practices are key to staying healthy and preventing the spread of norovirus.