NHS warns Brits to ‘keep at residence’ in pandemic-era warning as ‘thriller virus’ sweeps UK
The public were already being reminded that a measure they might believe eradicates the virus – referred to in many countries as a “mystery virus” – actually proves ineffective
A warning has been issued(Image: In Pictures via Getty Images)
NHS officials have warned Brits to “stay at home” in an virus warning eerily harping back to the pandemic-era. Yesterday, the Daily Star reported how instances of a particularly nasty bug remain “high” across England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) had confirmed 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 were already 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.”
However, with that method of potential protection ruled out, the NHS has now told people to “stay at home”. Taking to social media, they said: “Norovirus is going around right now. The virus can spread very easily. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. If you catch norovirus, stay at home and rest.”
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.
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.”
his 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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