Health and wellbeing
Stay safe to reduce the spread of norovirus
Published on
Walsall residents are being reminded of the simple actions they can take to reduce the spread of norovirus, with the latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data showing that norovirus cases continue to rise across the country.
Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but symptoms usually go away within a few days.
Symptoms of norovirus start suddenly within one to two days of being infected. This includes feeling sick (nausea), diarrhoea, being sick (vomiting), a high temperature, a headache and aching arms or legs.
The virus can be transmitted easily from person to person and is usually spread through close contact with someone with norovirus, contact with contaminated surfaces or objects or by eating food that has been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus.
“ Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, can make you very unwell. Some people including young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop symptoms.
Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the best things we can do to help stop the spread. Remember that alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so try not to rely on these alone.
If you have symptoms, take steps to avoid passing the infection on. If you have diarrhoea or vomiting, do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped. Avoid preparing food for others in that time and put any soiled clothes or bedding on a hot wash at 60 degrees. It is also recommended to clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps and bathroom door handles regularly.
If you are unwell, you should avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the virus.
Staying at home, resting and having lots of fluids to avoid dehydration is the most important thing to do to recover and avoid passing on the virus to others. You will usually start to feel better in two to three days. “
You can find out more about norovirus, how it is spread, how it can be treated at home and when to seek medical advice on the NHS website.
ENDS
Notes to editor:
- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a press release on 27 February 2025 warning of a potential second norovirus wave. People who have already had the virus this winter could be at risk again, as new data shows shift in circulating strains. UKHSA warns of potential second norovirus wave - GOV.UK
- UKHSA have blogged about norovirus reporting on GOV.UK - Why is norovirus reporting in England so high at the moment? – UK Health Security Agency
