Norovirus cases on the rise and how to stop it spreading across Dacorum
People across Dacorum are urged by the the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to take simple steps to help stop the spread of norovirus, as cases increase.
Sometimes known as the “winter vomiting bug”, the highly contagious virus has caused a sharp rise in outbreaks in parts of the country. It’s caught through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and foods, allowing it to spread quickly in homes, schools, hospitals and care settings. Symptoms typically include sudden nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, which usually lasts around one to two days.
As well as norovirus, respiratory illnesses are still circulating. To help stop the spread of respiratory viruses, indoor spaces should be well ventilated. If you have symptoms, you should stay home where possible, and avoid visiting those more vulnerable, including older people, pregnant women and young babies.
If you need to go out with symptoms, consider wearing a face mask. Remember that alcohol gels do not kill norovirus and washing your hands with soap and water is more effective.
Dr Rui Feng, Public Health Registrar at UKHSA East of England, said: “We are seeing high levels of norovirus across the country, and this is having an impact on healthcare settings. Norovirus spreads very easily, but the steps to prevent transmission are simple: staying home when unwell and practising good hand hygiene can significantly reduce the spread.”
How you can help stop the spread of norovirus:
- Stay at home if you have vomiting or diarrhoea and remain off work or school for 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
- Do not visit hospital wards, care homes or GP surgeries when symptomatic.
- Wash hands with soap and water frequently - hand sanitiser is less effective against norovirus.
- Keep hydrated and seek medical advice from NHS 111 if symptoms get worse or persist.