In recent weeks, the number of norovirus cases in the United Kingdom has steadily increased. Until the beginning of this month, nearly 1,500 people were confirmed to have the virus, according to the BBC. The number is 60% higher than the number of cases reported around the same time last year. According to the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Scotland, the virus increases the risk of staff sickness and absences, stretching hospital resources. It is also known as the “winter vomiting bug” and causes diarrhea.
Experts are concerned about the number of people infected with norovirus and other winter illnesses in the run-up to Christmas.
What exactly is a norovirus?
The norovirus virus is highly contagious and causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The Cleveland Clinic claims that the symptoms may be similar to the stomach flu, but they have a different cause.’
If a person comes into contact with someone who has been diagnosed with norovirus, the virus spreads quickly. There is no norovirus vaccine.
Norovirus, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), causes stomach or intestine inflammation. This is referred to as acute gastroenteritis. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after the virus has been exposed. The majority of people recover from norovirus illness in one to three days.
There is no specific medication for treating norovirus illness. The CDC recommends drinking plenty of liquids to replace lost fluids to avoid dehydration. It is also critical to wash your hands with soap and water on a regular basis, as the virus can remain in the feces of recovered people for at least two weeks.