The 'winter vomiting bug' is here already
If you're not feeling very well at the moment then you're not the only one.
It appears that we've been given a '48-hour warning' as cases of a nasty bug are on the rise.
The highly contagious norovirus – dubbed the 'winter vomiting bug' – is already here.
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According to the NHS, the stomach bug causes vomiting and diarrhoea, along with a possible high temperature and headache.
Those who catch norovirus may also have aching arms and legs, warns the health service.
As reported by The Sun, Amy Douglas, an epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said: "Norovirus levels have remained higher than expected recently and cases are likely to increase.
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"To help reduce the spread of the infection, if you have diarrhoea and vomiting, 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."
While many of us have carried on using hand sanitiser after the coronavirus pandemic, Douglas warns that 'alcohol gels do not kill norovirus'.
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Instead, she insists that you wash your hands the old fashioned way, with warm water and soap.
“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading," the health professional added.
UKHSA data suggests that cases have been up by double the average amount recorded within a two-week period, the outlet reports.
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"With kids returning to school over the last few weeks, cases are likely to rise," Douglas warned.
As parents will naturally be worried for their kids, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, Claire Nevinson, has urged 'children to practice good personal hygiene'.
She told PA that kids need to stay up to date with vaccinations, stay home when ill, get enough sleep and manage their stress levels when they can.
Also on the important of having a balanced diet, Nevinson added: "We know that children can be fussy eaters, but one of the best things you can do for their health is to fill their plate with colourful fruit and veg.
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"Ensuring they’re eating a healthy, balanced diet, including their five-a-day, can help them optimise their intake of different vitamins and minerals.
"Try to avoid giving them lots of processed and sugary foods, as well as saturated fats, too – that’s not to say ice cream and cookies are completely off the table, it’s just about balance and moderation."
