UK hit by highly contagious virus with 'don't go to work or school' warning issued

Brits are being warned to stay away from work and keep children out of school as a nasty stomach bug grips the nation.

The UK Health Security Agency has sounded the alarm over a significant rise in norovirus cases, which have spiked sharply in recent weeks.

According to the UKHSA, levels of the highly contagious virus remain unusually high for this time of year and haven't shown the typical springtime decline. Norovirus, known for causing severe stomach upset including symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting, is rampant.

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Alarmingly, confirmed cases of norovirus are currently 75 percent above the average of the last five years, reports the UKHSA, reports the Express. Experts believe that the persistence of the virus may be linked to post-Covid changes in viral patterns and the unseasonably cold weather throughout most of May.

In an effort to curb the outbreak, people suffering from the virus are advised to practice good hygiene, particularly handwashing, and to avoid going into work. Amy Douglas, Norovirus Epidemiologist at UKHSA, commented: "Norovirus levels were higher in April than we would usually see at this time of year and have been increasing."

She added that the colder weather might have contributed to the situation, saying: "This is likely due to a combination of factors, but the colder weather we have had won't have helped."

Douglas also highlighted the risk of dehydration caused by norovirus, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, stressing the importance of staying hydrated if affected.

Moreover, she provided advice on preventing the spread of the infection: "If you have got diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don't prepare food for others in that time either."

"If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings."

"Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don't rely on these alone."

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