A NEW strain of a highly contagious winter virus is sweeping the country.
After they were first identified in Japan, those infected with the ‘Kawasaki bug’ were told to stay at home to avoid further spread.
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There has been a sharp rise in norovirus cases in the UK in recent months – and the Kawasaki bug is the dominant strainCredit: Getty
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Norovirus is highly contagious, so if you do contract it, it’s important to follow proper hygiene and cleanliness Credit: Getty
Norovirus, often called the ‘winter vomiting bug’, is a stomach illness that causes symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
Kawasaki has become the dominant strain of the virus across the UK in recent months, accounting for 70 per cent of all cases.
Norovirus cases tend to rise during the fall and winter as more people spend time indoors, in close proximity to each other.
But so far this winter, the number of cases is twice the average for this time of year, driven by the new variant.
Read more about winter viruses
The strain was first identified in Kawasaki, Japan in 2014 and spreads very easily.
dr. John Burke, Chief Medical Officer at AXA Health, shares his expert knowledge on how to prevent the virus from spreading this winter, as well as six key symptoms to be aware of.
He said: “Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that spreads through contact and can cause nausea and diarrhea in those infected.
“If you get infected with norovirus, it is necessary to observe proper hygiene and cleanliness.
“To avoid further spread of the virus, thoroughly disinfect all surfaces you come into contact with while you are infected and sterilize any dishes, plates or cups you use while you are unwell.
“When you are infected with norovirus, it is crucial that you avoid preparing or touching food or drink for other people to avoid becoming infected.”
What are the symptoms of norovirus and how long does winter vomiting last?
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Because norovirus is extremely contagious, if you do contract it, you’ll need to avoid public contact for at least 48 hours after symptoms subside, warned Dr. Burke.
dr. Burke urged, “Staying at home until you feel well with norovirus is key to reducing the further spread of the virus.”
Six signs you might have norovirus
There are six key symptoms to look out for:
- Nausea
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- High temperature
- Headaches
- Exhaustion
Symptoms can usually be controlled at home and usually go away after a few days after the virus has passed through the body.
Over-the-counter medicines can be used to reduce symptoms, and advice can be sought online or from your local pharmacist.
How to relieve norovirus symptoms
Dr Burke advised keeping meals light to avoid further stomach upset.
He said: “If you struggle with food intake, try small amounts of easily digestible foods such as toast and crackers.”
As with any illness that causes illness, it’s important to keep your fluid levels up until you’re feeling well to prevent dehydration.
He explained, “Our bodies lose a lot of fluid through vomiting and diarrhea, so you need to drink clear fluids and electrolytes regularly when you’re unwell with norovirus.”
The last thing you can do is make sure you get enough rest for a quick recovery.
Dr Burke said: “It’s best to make sure you give your body enough time (at least 48 hours) to rest and recover from the virus before returning to work or school.”
When to call 999 or go to the emergency room
Norovirus is usually not life-threatening for most people, but it can be serious for some groups.
The error may be more serious in people who:
- Small children
- Older adults
- Pregnant
- They have a weakened immune system
- You have other medical conditions
You should call 999 or go to the emergency room if you or your child:
- Vomit blood or have vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- They have green vomit (adults)
- You have yellow-green or green vomit (children)
- Maybe he swallowed something poisonous
- You have a stiff neck and pain when looking at bright lights
- You have a sudden, severe headache or stomach ache
Source: NHS
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Nausea and diarrhea are two key symptoms of norovirusCredit: Getty
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