Health officials have warned « it doesn’t work » as cases of a particularly unpleasant bug remain « high » throughout England.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed this week that whilst norovirus activity has stabilised in recent weeks, the number of people falling ill remains significantly above typical levels for this time of year.
And the public are being reminded that a measure they might believe eliminates the virus actually proves ineffective.
UKHSA said on X, formerly Twitter: « Anti-bac? Hand-gel? Hand-sanitiser? Whatever you call it, it doesn’t work against norovirus. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water. »
Commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, though it can strike at any time throughout the year, norovirus is the most common infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhoea in the UK.
It is extremely contagious, spreading swiftly through contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. While most people recover within two or three days, experts warn that the virus can leave some patients feeling exhausted for up to a week.
The virus frequently strikes « suddenly, » with the primary symptoms being:.
- Diarrhoea
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Being sick (vomiting)
There are also some lesser-known symptoms, including a high temperature, a headache, stomach pain, and aching arms and legs.
This week, a ward at West Suffolk Hospital was shut down, with people told to avoid visiting if they’ve recently been ill due to an increase in norovirus cases.
Across the UK, health bosses recommend that anyone with symptoms should stay home from work – or keep children displaying symptoms out of school – for a minimum of 48 hours after symptoms subside.
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