Brits are being warned that a seasonal illness is arriving earlier than expected and is spreading quickly. Norovirus, a highly contagious disease, is also known as 'winter vomiting bug' and as you can imagine, it's rather unpleasant. Express.
co.uk breaks down the symptoms and how to treat it. According to NHS figures, infections have shot up 29 % between 23 September and 6 October, a rate that's twice the typical outbreak level for this time of year.
UK Health Security Agency's epidemiologist Amy Douglas said: "Norovirus levels have remained higher than expected recently and cases are likely to increase." What are the symptoms? The illness can be very uncomfortable and sap you of your energy to do basic tasks. The three main symptoms of this stomach bug are nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
You may also experience a high temperature, headaches, and aches through your limbs. Symptoms can sometimes appear suddenly, between one and two days after exposure. How do I treat norovirus? Maintaining your fluid intake is vital when suffering from norovirus, as you'll be losing lots of water due to the diarrhoea and vomiting.
However, chugging lots of water all at once may not be advisable. Over-the-counter painkillers may help, and rest is essential to making a speedy recovery. The advice to try and swerve the nasty virus is to keep your hands off potentially contaminated spots – such as door handles – and wash them well if you do touch them.
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