Health: Notts on Norovirus alert

Notts hospitals are warning people to stay away if they suspect Norovirus as they have seen an increase in recent weeks.

Norovirus is very common at this time of year and outbreaks of the virus have been reported in Notts hospitals.

It is highly contagious and is the most frequent cause of infectious gastroenteritis in England and Wales.

For most people it will mean a short bout of diarrhoea and vomiting that should clear within 24-72 hours. However, for vulnerable people like young children and the elderly it can have a more significant effect.

Advice from the Nottingham University Hospitals states to avoid visiting hospitals if you are suffering with vomiting or diarroea and as a precautionary they are asking relatives not to visit infected wards unless absolutely necessary.

Prevention Tips:

  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water.
  • Ensure that toilet areas in your home are kept clean, particularly if you have been experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Wash any clothing or linen that could be contaminated with Norovirus.
  • Disinfect any hard surfaces that could be contaminated.

People suffering do not usually need to consult their GP unless symptoms are very bad or continue beyond 48 hours.

If you are worried about yourself or a family member you are being asked to call your GP or NHS 111.

 

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