Health officials are reporting a seasonal increase in cases of norovirus across the United Kingdom as the colder weather sets in. The highly contagious virus, often dubbed the 'winter vomiting bug', is currently showing its highest infection rates amongst young children.
Who is most affected by the current outbreak?
The infection rate has remained highest among children under the age of 4, making nurseries and preschools potential hotspots for transmission. While norovirus can be caught at any time of the year, its prevalence typically spikes during the winter months, leading to its common nickname.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), confirmed the trend, stating: "Norovirus activity has remained within expected levels in recent weeks, but it’s important to remember the simple steps we can take to prevent the spread of norovirus as we approach the colder months."
What are the symptoms and how does it spread?
The virus has a short incubation period, with symptoms developing within 12 to 48 hours of exposure. The most common and abrupt signs include projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea. These are often followed by a high temperature, a headache, and general aches and pains throughout the body.
Norovirus is notoriously contagious. It spreads easily through close contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces, or consuming food handled by someone who is ill. The virus can be serious as it leads to dehydration, which poses a particular risk for vulnerable groups such as the very young, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
How can you stop the spread?
Health experts have issued clear guidance to curb the outbreak. Ms. Douglas emphasised: "At the moment, the highest rate of cases is in children, so if your child has any symptoms, please keep them off school or nursery until 48 hours after their symptoms stop."
The same rule applies to adults: if you are unwell, you should not go to work or prepare food for others until 48 hours after your symptoms have completely ended. It is also crucial to avoid visiting hospitals and care homes during this time to protect the most vulnerable.
Frequent hand washing with soap and warm water is the most effective defence, as alcohol-based hand gels do not kill the virus. In the home, cleaning contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based product and washing any affected clothing or bedding at 60°C can help eliminate the virus.
For more detailed information on signs, symptoms, and management, the public is advised to visit the official NHS website.
