Warning as norovirus cases are rife as infections surge – the 6 signs you must know
CASES of norovirus have risen again across the UK, data from the NHS has revealed.
The number of hospitalized patients with diarrhea and vomiting or norovirus symptoms has risen from 371 to 393 in the past week.
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This time last year, that number was 316, the data showed.
It is the fourth straight week that infections from the beetle have increased since the beginning of the year.
In January, parents were urged to teach their children good hygiene practices before going back to school.
And last week it was revealed that infections are higher than the five-season average and surpassing pre-Covid levels.
In addition, the number of people being taken to hospital by ambulance has increased to 78,431 from 77,937 in the last week.
The number of people calling 111 about their symptoms has also increased to 331,206 from 316,394.
Bed occupancy remained high at 93.8 percent last week, in line with the level reported the previous week.
NHS medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said the NHS remains under significant pressure.
“More people were rushed to the emergency department by ambulance last week than the week before, bed occupancy is still restricted and the number of people remaining in hospital who no longer need to be there has risen to almost 14,000 (13,983) during Diseases like influenza and norovirus remain a real problem.
“NHS staff are working incredibly hard to continue to provide our patients with the best care given the ongoing demand and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts this winter, which we know has been particularly challenging.
“As always, people should get in touch for the care they need – use 999 and A&E in an emergency and otherwise use NHS 111 Online,” he added.
Do you have norovirus?
Norovirus symptoms come on suddenly and the NHS states the main signs are:
- nausea (nausea)
- Diarrhea
- nausea (vomiting)
- They can also have a high temperature
- Headache
- aching arms and legs
Symptoms begin suddenly, within a day or two of exposure, the guide says.
If you have the disease, it’s best to rest and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
How to protect yourself from the norovirus
Norovirus can be nasty, but there are ways you can prevent yourself and your family from catching the virus.
- Pay special attention to hygiene – wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid close contact with people who are obviously ill
If you or members of your household are ill:
- Try to keep people with symptoms away from others until the illness has cleared for at least 48 hours
- Clean frequently – disinfect any potentially contaminated surfaces or objects
- Wash contaminated clothing or bedding with detergent at high temperature (60°C).
- Do not allow anyone who is ill to prepare food for others
- Anyone who has symptoms should drink fluids and stay well hydrated. Consider adding rehydration salts to the water. Eat simple foods (if you manage to eat).
- See a doctor if symptoms don’t improve after 24 hours or if you’re concerned. This is especially important for young children and the elderly as they tend to dehydrate quickly.
You will feel better after two to three days.
Norovirus is very easy to spread and you can get it if you have been in close contact with someone who had the bug.
You might also feel unwell if you have touched surfaces or objects that have the virus on them and then touched your mouth.
Eating food prepared or handled by someone with the insect also increases your risk of contracting the insect.
If you or your child’s symptoms worsen and you are sick for more than seven days, you should call 911.
https://www.the-sun.com/health/7288811/warning-norovirus-cases-rife-infections-surge-signs-know/ Warning as norovirus cases are rife as infections surge – the 6 signs you must know