The media has been reporting that we are in the midst of a viral ‘epidemic’ with thousands of cases of Norovirus, often known as the “winter vomiting virus” in Britain at the start of the year. This virus is often around during the winter months, but this year, according to media reports, thousands of people have suffered from the bug in the past few weeks, with NHS Direct reporting over 13,000 calls in 24 hours and hospital wards being shut down to stop the spread.
Symptoms of the virus include sudden nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, with some people also suffering from fevers, headaches and aching limbs. Most people tend to feel better after one or two days, but again this year the media are reporting that symptoms are often lasting up to five days.
The virus is highly contagious, so often whole families can be hit as they care for someone else who has the virus. Nurseries, hospitals and schools are also at higher risk of infection as many people share close quarters, as demonstrated by the amount of hospitals taking action to stem the spread of the virus. The germ can be spread via all sorts of everyday household items, sitting on door handles, cups or wash basins for example.
Often, many people feel that they are at the mercy of viruses – that it’s a game of chance as to whether you catch the “bug” or if it passes you by. However, this isn’t necessarily the case and there can be small things you can do to take precautions and help prevent you and your family from succumbing.
Doctors have advised that if you stay at home for two days once the vomiting and diarrhea has passed, then this should mean that you are no longer contagious and therefore should not pass the virus along. Therefore, don’t feel guilty about not rushing back to work. In the same vane, don’t have visitors or go visiting – “batten down the hatches” instead and keep the virus contained. Be especially hygienic by washing your hands often; this can help you stop the virus from spreading around the family.
But what if you do catch the virus? Unfortunately there is no ‘miracle cure’ and antibiotics don’t work on viruses, so doctors are recommending simple remedies to help patients feel better. Paracetamol may help with the aches and pains and people should drink plenty of fluids to avoid getting dehydrated. Some people are more at risk from dehydration – babies and very young children as well as the more elderly so if you are worried, then ring your GP for advice.
If you are suffering from the winter vomiting virus or looking after someone else who is suffering, you can find
health advice at most high street pharmacies or your local health centre.
Paul McIndoe is an online, freelance journalist and keen hillwalker. He lives in Edinburgh with his two dogs.
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