Mystery virus sweeps UK as Brits warned official recommendation ‘would not work’
The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed norovirus cases remain significantly above typical levels for this time of year – and the public are being reminded that hand sanitiser doesn’t work against the winter vomiting bug
Be warned(Image: Tempura via Getty Images)
Health officials have warned Brits that “it doesn’t work” as instances of a particularly nasty bug remain “high” across England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed this week that while norovirus activity has stabilised in recent weeks, the number of people falling ill remains significantly above average for this time of year.
And the public are being reminded that a measure they might believe eradicates the virus – referred to in many countries as a “mystery virus” – actually proves ineffective.
UKHSA stated on X, formerly Twitter: “Anti-bac? Hand-gel? Hand-sanitiser? Whatever you call it, it doesn’t work against norovirus. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water.”
Commonly referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, although it can strike at any time throughout the year, norovirus is the most common infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhoea in the UK, reports the Express.
It is highly contagious, spreading rapidly through contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Whilst most people recover within two or three days, experts warn that the virus can leave some patients feeling fatigued for up to a week.
The virus often strikes “suddenly,” with the primary symptoms being:
- feeling sick
- being sick (vomiting)
- diarrhoea
You may also have:
- a high temperature
- a headache
- tummy pain
- body aches and pains
There are also some lesser-known symptoms, including a high temperature, a headache, stomach pain, and aching arms and legs.
An NHS spokesman said: “If you or your child have norovirus, you can usually treat it at home. You’ll usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.
“Diarrhoea and vomiting can usually be treated at home. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.”
This week, a ward at West Suffolk Hospital was closed down, with people advised to avoid visiting if they’ve recently been unwell due to an increase in norovirus cases.
Across the UK, health chiefs advise that anyone exhibiting symptoms should refrain from going to work – or keep children showing symptoms away from school – for at least 48 hours after symptoms have eased.
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