Important Information On Using This Service
- Ergsy carefully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by YouTube after a video has completed have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in the center of the video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on captions, click settings.
- To turn off captions, click settings again.
Find A Professional
More Items From Ergsy search
-
What is norovirus? (Diarrhoea and vomiting bug) | NHS
Relevance: 100%
-
What is norovirus? (Diarrhoea and vomiting bug) | NHS
Relevance: 46%
-
What is norovirus? (Diarrhoea and vomiting bug) | NHS
Relevance: 44%
-
What is norovirus? (Diarrhoea and vomiting bug) | NHS
Relevance: 36%
-
What is norovirus? (Diarrhoea and vomiting bug) | NHS
Relevance: 23%
-
Advice for diarrhoea and vomiting
Relevance: 1%
-
My child has vomiting and diarrhoea - what do I do?
Relevance: 1%
What is Norovirus? (Diarrhoea and Vomiting Bug) | NHS
Introduction to Norovirus
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Commonly referred to as the "diarrhoea and vomiting bug," this virus is notorious for causing outbreaks in communities, especially in places such as schools, care homes, and cruise ships.
Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms of norovirus infection usually appear suddenly and include severe vomiting, watery diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach cramps. Some people may also experience a slight fever, headaches, and aching limbs. These symptoms can be unpleasant but typically last for only a few days. Dehydration is a major concern, particularly for the young, elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Transmission of Norovirus
Norovirus spreads very easily and quickly from person to person. You can contract the virus by coming into contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces or objects, or consuming contaminated food or water. The virus can survive on surfaces for several days, making it crucial to maintain good hygiene practices during an outbreak.
Treatment and Prevention
There is no specific treatment for norovirus. To manage the symptoms, NHS recommends drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, getting ample rest, and taking medication such as paracetamol for fever and aches. Avoid handling food, and practice thorough hand washing with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not as effective against norovirus.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Most people recover from norovirus within a few days without needing medical attention. However, if symptoms persist, or if you or someone you care for becomes severely dehydrated, it's important to seek medical advice. Look out for signs of dehydration such as infrequent urination, dry mouth, and feeling lightheaded.
Conclusion
Norovirus, while unpleasant, is generally short-lived. By maintaining good hygiene practices, staying hydrated, and being cautious during outbreaks, you can help to prevent the spread of this common but troublesome virus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is norovirus?
Norovirus, often referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug', is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting.
What are the main symptoms of norovirus?
The main symptoms of norovirus include sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Some people may also experience a high temperature, abdominal pain, and aching limbs.
How is norovirus spread?
Norovirus spreads easily through close contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces, or consuming contaminated food or water.
How long do norovirus symptoms last?
Norovirus symptoms typically last for about 1 to 2 days, but you may still be contagious for a short period after symptoms improve.
Can I get norovirus more than once?
Yes, it is possible to get norovirus multiple times because there are many different strains of the virus, and immunity to one strain does not protect you against others.
How can I prevent the spread of norovirus?
To prevent the spread of norovirus, wash your hands often with soap and water, disinfect contaminated surfaces, and avoid preparing food for others while symptomatic.
Is there a treatment for norovirus?
There is no specific treatment for norovirus. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and you might use over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.
When should I see a doctor about norovirus?
You should see a doctor if your symptoms are severe, such as persistent vomiting and diarrhoea that doesn’t improve, signs of dehydration, or if you have underlying health conditions.
Is norovirus more common during certain times of the year?
Although norovirus can occur at any time of the year, it is more common in the winter months.
Can norovirus be serious?
Norovirus is generally not serious for most people, but it can be more severe for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems due to the risk of dehydration.
Is norovirus the same as food poisoning?
Norovirus can be a cause of food poisoning when it contaminates food or water. However, food poisoning can also be caused by other bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
How long does norovirus live on surfaces?
Norovirus can survive on surfaces for several days, making it important to clean and disinfect thoroughly to prevent the spread.
Can I go to work or school with norovirus?
You should stay home while you are symptomatic and for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to avoid spreading the virus to others.
How is norovirus diagnosed?
Norovirus is generally diagnosed based on symptoms. In some cases, stool samples may be tested to confirm the presence of the virus.
Can norovirus be prevented by vaccination?
Currently, there is no vaccine available for norovirus. Preventive measures focus on good hygiene and food safety practices.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Dealing with Common Childhood Illnesses
- NHS - Childhood illnesses This NHS page provides an overview of common childhood illnesses and how to spot their symptoms. It also covers when to seek medical advice.
- NHS - Common health questions: Children's health A collection of frequently asked questions about children's health, answered by the NHS. Topics include fever management, vaccinations, and dealing with common ailments.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital - Conditions and Treatments Great Ormond Street Hospital's resource for understanding various childhood conditions and the treatments available. The site offers detailed information on specific illnesses.
- The Lullaby Trust - Illnesses and infections The Lullaby Trust provides advice on safer sleep for babies and key information on dealing with illnesses and infections in infants.
Useful links from: Understanding Seasonal Flu: Prevention and Treatment
- NHS - Flu Comprehensive guide by the NHS on flu, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention tips.
- NHS - Flu vaccination Detailed information from the NHS about the flu vaccine, who should get it, how it works, and its effectiveness.
- Asthma UK - Flu and People with Asthma Advice from Asthma UK on the impact of the flu on people with asthma, including prevention tips and the importance of vaccination.
- British Lung Foundation - Flu (influenza) The British Lung Foundation's resource providing information on flu, how it affects people with lung conditions, and preventive measures.
Useful links from: How to treat diarrhoea and vomiting at home (adults and children aged 5 and over) | NHS
- NHS - Diarrhoea and vomiting NHS guide on how to treat diarrhoea and vomiting in adults and children aged 5 and over. The page provides information on symptoms, treatment, and when to see a doctor.
- Health A-Z: Diarrhoea NHS page that offers comprehensive information on diarrhoea, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Patient.info - Diarrhoea Patient.info provides detailed information about diarrhoea, including its causes, symptoms, and home treatment tips. Also offers guidance on when to seek medical help.
- ERIC - The Children’s Bowel & Bladder Charity ERIC (Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence) offers resources and support for managing diarrhoea in children. The site includes practical advice for parents and caregivers.
Useful links from: Advice for diarrhoea and vomiting
- NHS - Diarrhoea and Vomiting The NHS provides comprehensive advice and guidance on managing diarrhoea and vomiting, including causes, treatments, and when to seek medical help.
- NHS Inform - Diarrhoea NHS Inform offers detailed information on the causes of diarrhoea, its treatment, and ways to prevent it, as well as advice on when to consult a doctor.
- British Red Cross - First Aid Advice for Diarrhoea and Vomiting The British Red Cross provides first aid advice for handling diarrhoea and vomiting, including practical tips on care and when to seek medical assistance.
- ERIC - The Children's Bowel & Bladder Charity ERIC UK offers focused advice on managing diarrhoea in children, covering symptoms, possible causes, and treatment strategies.
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.