Norovirus Hospitalisations Reach Winter High in England
NHS figures have disclosed that the number of patients in hospitals across England with norovirus has soared to a new peak for this winter season. According to the latest weekly performance snapshot of English hospitals, an average of 823 hospital beds were occupied each day last week by individuals suffering from diarrhoea, vomiting, or norovirus-like symptoms. This marks a significant increase from the previous week's average of 567 patients, highlighting a concerning upward trend in infections.
Understanding Norovirus: A Highly Contagious Threat
What is norovirus? Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall Medical, explains that norovirus is a highly contagious virus responsible for causing gastroenteritis, which involves inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The virus spreads effortlessly through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person. Transmission can also occur by touching surfaces harbouring the virus and then placing hands in the mouth, or by consuming food handled by someone infected.
Dr Ashwin Sharma from online pharmacy MedExpress clarifies common misconceptions, noting that unlike respiratory viruses such as influenza, norovirus specifically targets the gastrointestinal system. He emphasises that individuals often mistakenly believe they are no longer contagious once symptoms subside, but in reality, most people can remain infectious for up to two weeks or more after symptoms have resolved.
Who is Most Vulnerable to Norovirus?
Dr Tang points out that while anyone can contract norovirus, it tends to spread more rapidly in environments where people are in close proximity, such as schools, hospitals, or nursing homes. Young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for severe symptoms, as their bodies may struggle to cope with dehydration and other effects. However, even healthy adults can become seriously ill due to the virus's high contagion levels.
Recognising the Symptoms and Warning Signs
Common symptoms of norovirus include nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting, as outlined by Dr Sharma. In some cases, individuals may also experience additional symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body aches. It is crucial to monitor these symptoms closely and seek medical attention if they become severe or persistent.
Dr Tang adds that the most critical aspect to watch for is dehydration, particularly in young children or older adults, as it can develop rapidly due to vomiting and diarrhoea. Over-the-counter medications can assist in managing fever and aches, but recovery primarily involves rest and allowing the virus to run its course while maintaining hydration. In extreme cases where dehydration becomes problematic, some individuals may require intravenous fluids.
Effective Prevention Strategies
To prevent norovirus infection, Dr Tang advises that the most important measure is regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before eating. He notes that hand sanitisers are less effective against norovirus, making traditional handwashing essential. Additionally, it is vital to clean and disinfect surfaces, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, and to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
If someone in your vicinity has norovirus, it is best to avoid direct contact and maintain rigorous hygiene practices. Should symptoms persist, contacting a GP is recommended to ensure proper care and management.
