Norovirus Surge: What You Need to Grasp to Protect Your Family
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus causing gastroenteritis (often called the “winter vomiting bug”), is currently circulating at high levels in the community.1 This surge is putting additional pressure on healthcare services, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
What is Norovirus?
Noroviruses are a common cause of gastroenteritis, affecting people of all ages.1 While often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” norovirus can occur year-round, with increased transmission during colder months when people spend more time indoors.4 It belongs to a group of viruses called caliciviruses.1
Symptoms of Norovirus
The main symptoms of norovirus include vomiting and diarrhea.3 Other symptoms can include abdominal cramps, fever, and headache.3 Symptoms typically appear 1 to 2 days after infection and can last from 1 to 10 days, depending on the specific virus.3
How is Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus is extremely contagious and spreads easily through close contact with infected individuals.3 Transmission can occur through:
- Sharing food, water, or eating utensils.
- Close contact with someone who is sick.
- Inhaling airborne droplets containing the virus.
- Eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.
Outbreaks are common in settings where people congregate, such as healthcare facilities, schools, hotels, cruise ships, and workplaces.34
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
Here’s how to prevent the spread of norovirus:
- Stay Home When Sick: If you have vomiting or diarrhea, stay off work or school for at least 48 hours after your symptoms have passed.1
- Avoid Visiting Vulnerable Individuals: Do not visit hospitals, nursing homes, or people with weakened immune systems while you are sick or for 48 hours after recovering.1
- Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against norovirus.1
- Disinfection: Disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with bleach-based household cleaners.1
- Laundry: Wash any potentially contaminated clothing or bedding separately in hot water.
- Avoid Sharing: Don’t share towels, face cloths, or personal items.
- Proper Waste Disposal: Flush vomit and feces in the toilet and clean the surrounding area thoroughly.
- Food Safety: Avoid eating raw, unwashed produce.
When to Seek Medical Attention
For most people, norovirus is a mild illness that resolves on its own.1 Drinking plenty of fluids is usually sufficient. However, if you are concerned about your symptoms, or if you think you are seriously unwell, contact your pharmacist or GP by phone.1 If you require emergency care, inform staff at reception about your symptoms so they can take appropriate precautions.