Urgent ‘stay at home’ warning issued as violent diarrhoea bug cases surge

An urgent warning has been issued to ‘stay at home’ as cases of a violent diarrhoea bug surge across the UK. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a significant 31.6 per cent increase in norovirus cases between November 4 and 17 compared to the previous fortnight. This surge in cases has been observed across all age groups, with adults, especially those aged 65 and over, showing the biggest increase. The total number of reported cases is nearly double the usual amount for this time of year, according to the UKHSA.

The rise in cases has started earlier than usual, prompting the UKHSA to urge individuals experiencing symptoms of the highly contagious virus to refrain from going out to prevent further spread. It is recommended to use soap and warm water to wash hands and bleach-based products to clean surfaces to reduce infection spread. Hand sanitiser, while commonly used, does not effectively kill the virus and should not be solely relied upon for protection.

Notably, there has been a higher than usual incidence of norovirus outbreaks in hospitals, with a 19.4 per cent increase reported. Amy Douglas, an epidemiologist at UKHSA, emphasised the need to take precautions to avoid transmitting the infection if one is affected. The primary advice is for individuals with diarrhoea or vomiting to stay home until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased, avoiding close contact with others and refraining from food preparation during this period.

Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, high temperature, abdominal pain, and body aches. The virus can lead to dehydration, particularly in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised individuals. It is crucial to stay hydrated if infected.

The UK Health Security Agency has identified the dominant strain causing these cases as norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), with ongoing surveillance to monitor any changes. The agency underscored that the current strain does not indicate more severe illness at present. However, it is believed that the actual number of cases could be substantially higher than reported figures.

Various factors may contribute to the increased cases, including improved testing technology and potential viral changes post-Covid-19. The UKHSA highlights the importance of taking preventive measures, such as hand hygiene and surface cleaning, to curb the infection’s spread. Individuals are advised to be cautious and seek medical advice if needed.

In conclusion, the recent surge in norovirus cases underscores the critical need for public health vigilance and individual responsibility in preventing infection spread. Vigilant hand hygiene, staying home when unwell, and following recommended guidelines can play a significant role in mitigating the impact of the virus on communities. It is crucial for everyone to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms related to norovirus.