A trusted GP with 25 years of experience has warned people to “stay home” as he detailed the symptoms of norovirus as a new strain emerges. Cases of the vomiting bug have doubled compared to last year, according to AXA Health.
The ‘Kawasaki bug’, first identified in the Japanese city in 2014, has swiftly become the one of the most common virus in the UK in recent months, accounting for 70 percent of all cases, the Mirror reports. Chief medical officer at AXA Health, Dr John Burke, has offered his expertise on how to prevent the spread of norovirus this winter and highlighted the six key symptoms to watch out for as the Kawasaki strain increases.
Dr Burke said: “Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that spreads through contact and can cause sickness and diarrhoea for those infected. Often referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ cases of Norovirus soar over autumn and winter as more people spend time indoors, in close proximity to each other.”
The six symptoms of norovirus include; nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, a high temperature, headaches and exhaustion.
Norovirus symptoms are normally manageable at home and resolve within a few days after the virus has passed through the body. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve Norovirus symptoms, and you can get assistance online or from your local chemist.
Dr Burke said: “Try to keep your meals bland while you’re unwell with norovirus, to avoid further upsetting your stomach. If you are struggling to keep food down, try small amounts of easily digestible foods such as toast and crackers.
“With any illness that causes sickness, it’s really important to maintain fluid levels while unwell to prevent dehydration. Our bodies lose a lot of fluids through vomiting and diarrhoea therefore, you must be regularly drinking clear fluids and electrolytes when you are unwell with Norovirus.
“When infected with norovirus, rest is essential for a quick recovery. It’s best to ensure that you are giving your body adequate time (a minimum of 48 hours) to rest and recover from the virus before returning back to work or school.“
If you become sick with norovirus, it is critical to maintain good hygiene and cleanliness. To prevent the virus from spreading further, completely clean any surfaces you come into touch with while infected, and sterilise any utensils, plates, or cups you use while sick.
When plagued with norovirus, you must avoid making or handling food or drinks for others to avoid contamination. Norovirus is very contagious, therefore if you become sick, you must avoid contact with the public for at least 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided.
Staying at home while sick with norovirus is essential for reducing the virus’s spread. The first norovirus vaccine is presently being tested in the UK, providing hope for the future against the highly contagious winter stomach bug.
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