How to avoid the 'highly contagious' winter bug spreading across the UK

31 Oct 2024

Brooke Davies published this on October 31, 2024, at 10:12 AM and updated it later that same day at 4:03 PM.

Highly contagious winter bug UK - Figure 1 — Photo Metro

There's a significant spread of the highly infectious norovirus occurring in homes throughout the UK.

According to NHS data, there has been a 29% rise in stomach bug cases from September 23 to October 6.

This is twice the anticipated amount for this period of the year.

The virus leads to symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, and those who are infected may also have a fever and a headache.

Every year, thousands of people in the UK are hospitalized because of this highly infectious virus.

Dr. Hilary Jones commented, "Winter can be challenging for many people due to the shorter days and dreary weather, which often leaves individuals more vulnerable to serious health issues."

This year, with cases of flu, RSV, and COVID increasing earlier than usual, the British Medical Association has cautioned that this winter could be the most challenging one yet for the NHS.

Key Symptoms Of Norovirus Explained

If you have contracted norovirus, you can expect to experience the following symptoms:

You might also possess:

Worldwide, it leads to approximately 200,000 fatalities each year, with around 25% of those being children.

In the UK, approximately 80 people lose their lives to norovirus each year, with older individuals and those with weakened immune systems being the most affected groups.

Individuals experiencing symptoms are strongly advised to refrain from going to the hospital until they have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.

NHS Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Christine Woodgate shared a message in a TikTok video, stating: "If you're experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or have a fever, headache, or body aches in your arms or legs, it might be norovirus."

The first-ever vaccine for norovirus has been tested in hospitals across the UK, utilizing the same technology that was used for the Covid vaccine.

Moderna's latest mRNA vaccine is set to enter the last phase of testing in the coming weeks. So far, the findings suggest that it triggers a robust immune response.

Dr. Patrick Moore, the lead researcher of the study, stated that because there is no vaccine available at the moment, severely ill patients in the hospital can only receive treatment with intravenous fluids.

He mentioned, "It can impact individuals of any age, and it tends to be most prevalent during the winter months in the UK... however, norovirus can be observed all year round."

Tips To Prevent Norovirus Infection

The NHS recommends that washing your hands regularly with soap and water is the most effective method to prevent the spread of the vomiting virus.

Staying away from anyone who has the virus and not consuming food they have touched or prepared also helps reduce the risk.

Dr. Jones recommended reducing alcohol intake, staying warm, and getting plenty of rest.

She mentioned that warming a single room in your home can help you stay cozy while also reducing energy costs. However, it's crucial to maintain that area at a temperature higher than 18°C.

"During a harsh cold spell, it’s important to keep warm inside and wear several layers of clothing."

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