Warning issued to people with norovirus after huge surge in cases
We're still in the winter months and one thing is guaranteed - a lot of people will be falling ill.
Whether it be a cough or a cold, it's not a welcome part of the season.
But norovirus is particularly unpleasant and the NHS have issued a warning about it.
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The health service have urged those with it to stay at home to recover.
Although it usually clears up within two days, it's advised for a sufferer to stay at home to rest and stay hydrated.
Posting to Twitter, the NHS said: "Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about two days.
"If you catch it; stay home, rest and have plenty of fluids."
According to figures obtained in early December 2024, norovirus rates had risen by 86 percent compared to the same week a year prior.
This meant an average of 756 patients were in hospital each day in the week.
Each year, norovirus is linked to around 12,00 hospital admissions a year.
It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pains.
Flu was also on the rise - with those hospitalized up 41 percent within a week.
This was four times higher than the figure recorded in 2023.
However, despite what the stats say, the UK Health Security Agency have said that norovirus' full impact isn't represented in the numbers.
This is because most cases of the illness aren't officially reported or recorded.
Oftentimes people let the illness run its course rather than seeking medical attention.
In order to halt the spread of norovirus, people should throughly wash their hands with soap and warm water.
Alcohol-based hand sanitisers will not be sufficient to fight the illness, the agency noted.
Bleach-based cleaners should also be used within the home to disinfect surfaces.
Even as far back as September, norovirus was spiking in the UK.
According to a medical monthly report, 23 September to 6 October saw a huge rise in cases.
At the time, Boots' Superintendent pharmacist Claire Nevinson issued a warning to parents.
She said: "I always recommend encouraging your children to practice good personal hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and warm water.
"This helps to remove dirt, viruses, and bacteria from hands and helps prevent a virus being transferred to surfaces, other people and objects, which can spread illnesses such as a cold, flu or norovirus infection."
Ben Thompson