Stay Well This Winter - Norovirus
Support and advice on Norovirus: What to do if you catch it and helping to stop the spread
Norovirus: What to do if you catch it and helping to stop the spread – UK Health Security Agency
Very Brief Intervention
Ask
Have you heard of Norovirus before? you might know this as the winter vomiting bug?
Assist
Would you like some information on the symptoms of Norovirus as they are fairly distinctive?
State that people often report a sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
Would you like some information on how you can treat the symptoms of Norovirus yourself?
Would you like some information on you can reduce this risk of Norovirus being spread this winter?
State that Norovirus is highly contagious and is transmitted by contact with contaminated surfaces, an infected person, or consumption of contaminated food or water
Act
Self Care
Check if you have norovirus
The main symptoms of norovirus are:
- feeling sick (nausea)
- diarrhoea
- being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
- a high temperature of 38C or above
- a headache
- aching arms and legs
The symptoms start suddenly within 1 to 2 days of being infected
How to treat norovirus yourself
- An infection with norovirus is self-limiting and most people will make a full recovery in 1-2 days. It is important to keep hydrated – especially children and the elderly
- Stay off school or work until the symptoms have stopped for 2 days. Also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time.
- Advice is available from NHS 111, including an online symptom checker at nhs.uk.
Please note that Antibiotics do not work for Norovirus. Do not visit either A&E or GPs with symptoms as this may spread the virus.
How to prevent the spread of Norovirus
Good hand hygiene is Key to stopping the spread of the virus
You should also keep shared surfaces (such as door handles and telephones) clean, and avoid sharing food, crockery, cutlery, or towels.
National Support and Information Services
Key Websites: