Well being chiefs have warned that that the present chilly climate is predicted to exacerbate the pressure on hospitals brought on by seasonal viruses.
That is practically thrice the common of 126 for the equal week in 2022.
There have been additionally a mean of 13 kids with the virus in hospital every day, in contrast with simply three on the similar level final 12 months.
The figures come amid proof of mounting winter pressures on the NHS, with one in 4 sufferers arriving by ambulance final week experiencing waits of no less than half-hour earlier than being transferred to A&E groups.
Right here is the whole lot we learn about norovirus, together with its transmission, signs, and therapy.
The norovirus bug causes irritation of the abdomen and gut, stopping the absorption of fluids from intestinal lining cells. Nonetheless, not like salmonella, these cells should not killed, therefore the faster restoration time.
The infectious virus can strike at any time and sometimes lasts between one to 3 days, however for most individuals, it’s most typical to contract this virus from November to April.
It impacts hundreds of thousands all over the world and signs sometimes develop 12 to 48 hours after being uncovered to it.
What are the signs of norovirus?
In response to the NHS, the primary signs of norovirus are nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting. You might also endure a excessive temperature of 39°C or above, a headache, and aching limbs.
Signs normally begin out of the blue, inside one to 2 days of being contaminated.
How is norovirus transmitted?
The virus can solely be transmitted if particles from vomit or faeces are handed on and ingested.
This will occur in numerous methods. You might catch it by consuming meals or ingesting liquids which can be contaminated, for example. Alternatively, you would possibly contact surfaces or objects which can be contaminated and later put them close to your mouth or contact your face.
How lengthy does the incubation interval final?
In people, the incubation interval normally lasts between 12 to 48 hours. Signs seem very out of the blue however normally solely final for 2 to 3 days earlier than the bug clears.
How can I stop catching norovirus?
Hygiene is a prime precedence to simply keep away from contracting the virus.
The best factor is to ensure you practise correct hand hygiene, particularly after utilizing public transportation, when utilizing the toilet, or earlier than touching or making ready meals.
When making ready meals, all recent produce must be washed completely, and all surfaces must be wiped down and disinfected earlier than cooking.
It’s extremely contagious, so when cleansing contaminated surfaces, use bleach-based family cleaners and deal with clothes with plastic gloves. Wash these things of clothes individually on a excessive setting to kill the germs.
How is norovirus handled?
Antibiotics don’t work on norovirus, however you’ll be able to take painkillers to fight any aches and pains you are feeling.
The perfect factor you are able to do is to drink loads of fluids with electrolytes to stability the salts in your physique and keep hydrated.
Additionally, be certain to get loads of relaxation and eat plain meals comparable to bread and rice.
You must name 111 in case you have diarrhoea for greater than every week or proceed vomiting after two days, expertise bleeding out of your backside, present indicators of dehydration, or the affected person is a child beneath 12 months.
And, in case your vomit is pink, darkish brown, or inexperienced, you’ve gotten a stiff neck and ache if you’re uncovered to shiny lights, or you’ve gotten sudden and extreme complications and abdomen aches, you’re suggested to name 999 or go to the A&E.
Try NHS guides for extra particulars on remedies.
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