Health experts are advising the public to stay away from hospitals if they have symptoms of norovirus, a highly contagious virus that is spreading rapidly.
Norovirus causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. It spreads easily in closed environments such as hospitals, care homes, and schools. Older adults, frail individuals, and those with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable to severe illness.
Public advised to avoid hospitals if symptomatic
The Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Team at Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group is asking individuals to avoid hospitals and care facilities if they feel unwell or experience any symptoms.
Natalie Vaughan, Deputy Director of Infection Prevention and Control, emphasised the importance of basic hygiene measures. She advised that washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
She also urged people to stay away from hospitals and care homes if they have symptoms and not to visit vulnerable individuals until 72 hours after symptoms have stopped. Anyone with a hospital appointment who develops symptoms should contact the number on their appointment letter to reschedule.
How norovirus spreads
The virus spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. It is highly resilient and can survive on surfaces for several days, increasing the risk of transmission in shared spaces.
Symptoms typically develop within 12 to 48 hours of exposure and last for up to three days. The illness often begins suddenly, with nausea and vomiting, followed by watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, mild fever, and muscle pain.
Most people recover at home without medical treatment, but young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems may experience severe dehydration and require medical care.
Preventing the spread of norovirus
Regular handwashing with soap and water remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection, as hand sanitiser is less effective against norovirus. People who are unwell should avoid hospitals and care settings to prevent spreading the virus to vulnerable individuals. Surfaces that may be contaminated should be thoroughly disinfected.
For further advice, visit the NHS website or contact a healthcare professional. Taking these precautions will help to protect individuals and reduce the spread of norovirus in the community.