What is norovirus?

Norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug (although you can catch it throughout the year, including during summer), is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

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How do I stop the spread?

Tips for if your child catches norovirus

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For most people norovirus is an unpleasant but short-lived illness, with full recovery within two to three days without needing any medicine.

Symptoms include sudden onset of feeling sick and wanting to vomit, projectile vomiting and diarrhoea. It can also include a high temperature, pain in the stomach area and aching limbs.

Norovirus can survive on surfaces for days or weeks, which is one of the main reasons it can spread so easily.

There is no specific treatment for norovirus. As it’s a virus, antibiotics won’t affect it. The best thing you can do is get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids, as vomiting and diarrhoea will cause your body to lose water and salts.

Stop the spread of norovirus

  • Wash your hands like you mean it

    After using the toilet or changing nappies, wash thoroughly with soap and water, not hand gel!

  • Clean hands, clean meals

    Before preparing, serving, or eating food, give those hands another good wash. Think of it as quality assurance, for you and your lunch!

  • Handle laundry with care and heat

    If clothing or bedding has been in contact with vomit or poo, wash it separately on a 60°C cycle. Your other laundry will be grateful.

  • Give your bathroom some love

    Regularly clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps, and door handles. A quick wipe-down keeps germs from turning your bathroom into a breeding ground.

  • When in doubt, sit it out

    If you’re feeling unwell, minimize contact with others. Rest up, avoid going into the office and return 48 hours after your last symptom. Your team will thank you!

What if I have norovirus?

If you or your child have norovirus, you can usually treat it at home.

You’ll usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.

Do not return to work or send children to school until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

If you’re concerned about your symptoms, you can contact NHS 111 online, by phone or ringing your GP practice. Further advice on norovirus can be found at: nhs.uk/conditions/norovirus

Vomiting and diarrhoea will cause your body to lose water and salts.

Try not to cook or help prepare meals for others until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped as norovirus can be spread through contaminated food.

It’s important to wash your hands regularly. Clean, wash or thoroughly disinfect any contaminated items or surfaces such as clothes, bedding, toilets, taps and door handles.

Do not attend a hospital, care home or general practice with norovirus

If you’ve had vomiting or diarrhoea it’s extremely important you are clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours before visiting a hospital, care home or general practice.

If you have a non-urgent appointment please reschedule if possible. If you’re not able to rearrange your appointment please call in advance to let staff know you’re unwell.

People can always phone or video call their loved one and visit when they are symptom free and feeling better.

Those who are well enough to visit can help prevent infection spreading by washing their hands with soap and water when entering and before they leave rather than just using hand sanitiser.

Tips for if your child catches norovirus

If your child catches norovirus it can be a particularly challenging time. Whilst norovirus is unpleasant, for most people norovirus passes within two to three days.

  • The virus is highly contagious. Children should be kept away from childcare settings such as nursery or school until 48 hours after their last symptom. (That does include clubs and sports too!)
  • Children and those looking after them should wash their hands regularly and then dry them carefully. Especially after going to the toilet, changing nappies and before touching food.
  • Do not worry as much if they are not interested in solid food. If they are hungry you could offer something plain. Appetite usually resumes when the virus is over.
  • Make sure children are drinking plenty of fluid. Small amounts often are best. Avoid fizzy drinks that may make children vomit more.
  • Dehydration happens more in small babies and those with long term conditions. If you are ever worried you can call 111 for advice.

The best place to find out more information on what to do if your child is unwell is the Healthier Together website.

Guidance for carers

If you’re having difficulty arranging for a loved one to be discharged from hospital due to norovirus:

  • Call the ward and let them know; they may have some specific advice
  • Ask a friend or family member if they can help

If you need assistance that isn’t covered by health or social care you can contact a voluntary assistance programme:

Dorset Council area Community Response – run by Help and Kindness:

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council area Wellbeing Collaborative – run by CAN:

Get help for your norovirus symptoms

Advice for children with vomiting and diarrhoea

Find out more about norovirus symptoms

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