The UK health agency warns people could get sick for a second time this winter
Health experts have revealed ways to prevent the spread of norovirus as a shift in the circulating strains of the virus puts the UK at risk of a second wave this winter, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns.
The health agency says levels of the virus remain ‘exceptionally high’ after NHS figures revealed the number of people in hospital with the winter vomiting bug reached all-time highs last week.
Infections remain nearly 150 per cent higher than those recorded last year, according to NHS England, with an average of 1,134 patients a day in hospital with norovirus last week compared to 470 patients during the same period last year.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director of NHS England, said: “While it is good news norovirus cases dropped, they remain extremely close to the all-time high reported last week so we can be under no illusions about the continued pressure staff are still facing.
“Hospitals remain close to capacity in part because of seasonal illnesses, and it is vital that people do everything they can to reduce the spread of what can be a deeply unpleasant illness.”
What not to do if you have norovirus
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is a contagious virus that causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads easily from person to person through the air, on surfaces such as door handles, or in foods.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus cases are still exceptionally high and we are seeing the biggest impacts in health and social care settings, such as hospitals and care homes. Symptoms of norovirus can be more severe in older adults, young children and those who are immunocompromised.”
As hospitals remain ‘close to capacity’ with 95 per cent of adult beds occupied, health bosses have urged Brits not to do the following things to help limit the spread of norovirus:
- Do not visit hospitals or care homes if you have diarrhoea and vomiting
- Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped
- Don’t prepare food for others for 48 hours
The UKHSA also warns not to use common hand sanitisers. “Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus. Wash your hands with soapy warm water and clean surfaces with bleach-based products where possible to help stop infections from spreading,” Douglas added.