According to the UK Health Protection Authority (UKHSA), the number of cases of norovirus vomiting is currently 66% higher than during normal times of the year.
Most cases occur in people over 65, with the virus prevalent in nursing homes.
Norovirus causes illness and diarrhea, and people usually recover completely within two to three days, but it can cause severe dehydration in very young and old people.
Reported cases among people over 65 are the highest in more than a decade. Outbreaks have increased in hospitals, schools and nursing homes.
Norovirus is a common, highly contagious virus that typically circulates during the winter, but the spike in cases may be due to suppression of the virus during two years of pandemic restrictions.
The UKHSA advises people to wash their hands to reduce spread, and anyone with norovirus should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Dr Lesley Larkin, Head of Gastrointestinal Infection Surveillance and Food Safety (One Health) at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus levels are now the highest we have seen at this time of year in more than a decade. The majority of reported cases are in people over 65, and we are also seeing an increase in reported outbreaks, especially in nursing homes.
“Please stay at home if you have symptoms of norovirus and do not return to work (especially if you are working with vulnerable people or food) and do not send sick children to school or daycare for 48 hours after the symptoms have disappeared. If you have a loved one in a nursing home or hospital, do not visit them for 48 hours after the symptoms have disappeared.
“Regular handwashing is very important to stop the spread of this virus, but remember that alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so soap and warm water are best.”
Professor Sir Stephen Powys, Medical Director of the NHS, said: “The number of people with norovirus in hospitals has increased significantly, in line with what we’re seeing in the community and in nursing homes – it’s a really uncomfortable disease to live with.” it’s possible to get sick, but for the vast majority of people, it usually resolves within a few days, and self-treatment at home is the best way to help yourself and not put others at risk.”
Source: I News
I’m Raymond Molina, a professional writer and journalist with over 5 years of experience in the media industry. I currently work for 24 News Reporters, where I write for the health section of their news website. In my role, I am responsible for researching and writing stories on current health trends and issues. My articles are often seen as thought-provoking pieces that provide valuable insight into the state of society’s wellbeing.