As temperatures drop, health experts are urging the public to be vigilant for symptoms of the latest norovirus.
The bug lasts about two days and the patient will experience vomiting and diarrhoea.
While contracting this highly contagious bug cannot always be avoided, steps can be taken to prevent it in some cases.
What are the symptoms?
- Diarrhoea
- Painful stomach cramps
- High temperature or fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
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How to avoid becoming ill?
- Clean hands with soap at frequent intervals throughout the day
- Disinfect cooking and work surfaces
- Use individual towels and flannels
- Avoid eating raw or unwashed produce
- Clean and flush toilet as frequently as possible
- Use a hot wash when washing bedding
- Store dishes, utensils and tin openers used for pet food separately
How is the bug spread?
The germs causing the bug are most commonly caused by poor hygiene, for example people not washing their hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, may then transfer the germs onto door handles and toilet handles that they touch. It is also spread through direct contact with someone infected, with the bug being spread through families and anywhere people are in close contact for example schools and offices.
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What do you do if have contracted the bug?
The winter vomiting bug can be very unpleasant but is rarely serious. It can be treated with a course of antibiotics. Treatment is most commonly being given plenty of fluids to prevent or treat dehydration. If you or a family member contract the winter vomiting bug contact your GP, and it's normally advised that anyone who has had diarrhoea should stay away from work or school until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours to prevent spreading the infection.
How long will it last?
Most people get over it within a day or two, but in the very young, elderly and those who have weakened immune systems it can last longer and it is easy to get dehydrated, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent this.
Keep safe this winter folks!
