At this time of the year, many bugs are in circulation, including Norovirus, also called the winter vomiting bug.
Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but usually gets better in about 2 days.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of norovirus usually start suddenly and may include:
- feeling sick
- being sick (vomiting)
- diarrhoea
You may also have:
- a high temperature
- a headache
- tummy pain
- body aches and pains
Do not go to school, nursery or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for 2 days (48 hours) and also don’t visit others in hospitals or places like care homes until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for 2 days.
How to treat Norovirus
If you or your child have norovirus, you can usually treat it at home. You’ll usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.
- Stay at home and get plenty of rest
- Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash – take small sips if you feel sick
- Carry on breast or bottle feeding your baby – if they’re being sick, try giving small feeds more often than usual
- Give babies on formula or solid foods small sips of water between feeds
- Eat when you feel able to – it may help to avoid foods that are fatty or spicy
- If you are in pain, you can take paracetamol (follow the guidelines on the box)
Speak to a pharmacist if you have signs of dehydration such as dark, smelly pee or peeing less than usual.
Although you can usually treat norovirus at home, call 111 if you’re worried about a baby or young child, if you are sick and cannot keep fluids down, if you have bloody diarrhoea or bleeding from your bottom, or if you have been vomiting for more than 2 days.
How to prevent Norovirus from spreading
- Wash your hands with soap and water after going to the toilet or changing nappies (alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus)
- Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing, serving or eating food
- Wash clothes and bedding that has poo or vomit on it on a 60°C wash and separately from other laundry
- Clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps and bathroom door handles frequently
- Avoid contact with others as much as possible