WITH norovirus cases at their highest level in decades, it’s no wonder many of us are dreading a bout of it.
Fresh data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed 784 new cases were reported in the fortnight up to February 19, with the season average being 387.
Pharmacist Bina Mehta recommended three products to provide relief from the virus
Norovirus can cause vomiting and diarrhoea and tends to come on suddenly.
However, it is easily treatable at home and you can start feeling better within two or three days.
Boots pharmacist Bina Mehta, shared advice on how to relieve symptoms of the dreaded bug.
On top of the main symptoms of being sick and having diarrhoea, you might get a high temperature, headache and achy arms and legs, Bina said.
“It is important to rest and drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration,” she advised.
“If it’s suitable for you, you can take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains.
Bina added: “You can also consider rehydration sachets if you are showing signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth and dark urine.”
Bina’s top products for relieving norovirus symptoms:
Dioralyte blackcurrant sachets
These will replenish the water your body needs, while the salts in the sachets are ideal for treating acute diarrhoea in infants, adults and children.
2. Imodium Instants
These can also provide relief from diarrhoea and stop it in less than an hour. They contain loperamide hydrochloride.
3. Paracetamol 500mg tablets
These will help bring down your fever.
What to do if you have norovirus
Bina said: “To avoid spreading the norovirus you should stay off work or keep your child off school until you or your child have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days.
This is when you will be most infectious, she explained.
Call 111 if you’re feeling worried or concerned, Bina said, and they will be able to arrange a phone call with a doctor or nurse if you need one.
If you or your child vomit blood, you should call 999 or go to A&E, she added.
You should also do that if your vomit looks like ground coffee or is yellow-green coloured.
The six norovirus symptoms to watch out for
According to the NHS website, you are likely to have caught norovirus if you experience a sudden sick feeling, projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
The main symptoms are:
Feeling sick (nausea)DiarrhoeaBeing sick (vomitingA high temperatureA headacheAching arms and legs
How you can get norovirus
Bina said: “Norovirus can spread very easily – you can catch it from being in close contact with someone with the virus.”
This can also happen from “touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them and then touching your mouth, or eating food that has been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus.”
You should ensure you wash your hands frequently with soap and water to stop the bug spreading, Bina said.
“It is important to note that alcohol hand gel does not kill the virus.”
How to protect yourself from norovirus
Norovirus can be nasty, but there are ways that you can prevent you and your family catching the bug.
Pay close attention to hygiene – wash your hands frequently, using soap and water
Avoid close contact with people who are obviously sick
If you or members of your household are ill:
Try to keep those with symptoms away from others until the illness has subsided for at least 48 hours
Clean frequently – disinfect any potentially contaminated surfaces or objects with a bleach-based household cleaner or a combination of bleach and water. This includestoilets, taps, telephones, door handles and kitchen surfaces
Wash contaminated clothing or bedding using detergent at high temperature (60C)
Do not allow anyone who is sick to prepare food for other people
Anyone who has symptoms should drink fluids and stay well hydrated. Consider adding rehydration salts to water. Eat plain foods (if you can manage eating).
Seek medical attention if symptoms are not improving after 24 hours, or if concerned. This is especially important for young children and the elderly, as they are prone to rapid dehydration.