Warning Over Rise In Norovirus Cases In South of England

An increase in norovirus cases across the south of England has led to a call for the public to be aware of the symptoms and to help slow the spread. Norovirus, sometimes called the “winter vomiting bug” is easily spread from person to person and can cause unpleasant symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea.

Sarah Merritt, deputy chief nurse at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, told the BBC: “At the RUH, we are seeing a much higher than usual rate of norovirus infection, and this is having a significant impact on our bed availability as we manage our clinical areas to reduce the spread of infection and keep the people we care for safe.”

Connie Timmins, lead nurse for infection prevention and control at the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Staying at home, as well as avoiding health and care settings, including hospitals, GP practices, pharmacies and care homes, will protect others, especially those who are vulnerable, from falling ill.”

The NHS advises that frequent hand washing with soap and water is the best way to prevent the spread of norovirus. However alcohol hand gels will not kill norovirus. It can be spread through close contact with other people, touching contaminated surfaces, or eating food that has been handled by a person with norovirus.

The symptoms come on suddenly and will usually improve after two days. As well as sickness and diarrhoea, patients may also have a high temperature, a headache, and aching limbs. The NHS advises resting and taking in lots of fluids until you feel better and have not vomited for at least two days.

It is very important not to go into work or school or any healthcare setting while you still have symptoms because you will still be infectious and will spread the virus around. If you need pharmacy supplies, order them online or ask someone to collect them for you. If you become dehydrated then taking some oral rehydration sachets will help.

Meanwhile, the NHS has launched an advertising campaign to encourage people to visit a pharmacist for advice about minor conditions such as coughs and colds. The ‘Help us to Help You’ campaign is running across TV, radio, and social media to highlight the advice and support that local pharmacies can offer.

Chief pharmaceutical officer, David Webb, said: “Community pharmacies are right in the heart of local communities, and with pharmacists fully trained clinical professionals, they are the perfect place for anybody suffering from a minor illness to get expert advice.

“Pharmacies can offer the convenience of turn up on the day consultations and can help you get any care needed including over-the-counter-medicines. So whether suffering from a cough, earache, itchy eye, or any other minor illness, popping into your local pharmacy is a great way to nip an issue in the bud before it potentially worsens.”

There are also further plans to enable pharmacists to carry out blood pressure checks and other tests that may help to detect cancer or heart disease earlier. 

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