Norovirus

Norovirus

What is Norovirus?

Noroviruses are part of a group of viruses that are the most
common cause of gastroenteritis (upset stomach) in the UK.
Noroviruses are sometimes known as 'small round
structured viruses' (SRSV) or 'Norwalk-like viruses'.
Noroviruses are also called the 'winter vomiting disease'
because people usually get them during the winter months.
However, they can occur at any time of the year.

How are noroviruses spread?

It is estimated that the norovirus affects between 600,000
and one million people in the UK every year. Outbreaks of
the illness are common, particularly within contained
environments such as hospitals, nursing homes and
schools. This is because the norovirus spreads very easily
from person to person and it can survive for several days in
a contaminated area.

The norovirus can be spread through contact with an
infected person, through contact with surfaces or objects
that are contaminated with the virus, or by eating
contaminated food or water.

There are many types of norovirus, and it is possible for
infection to occur several times. This is because after
getting the illness immunity to the virus only lasts for 14
weeks. Having recurring bouts of the norovirus may provide
some protection from future infection.

How is it treated?

Currently, there are no medications to treat norovirus.
Antiviral medications are not yet known to be effective
against norovirus. Antibiotic medications used to treat
bacterial infections are definitely not effective against
norovirus.

Those infected with norovirus should drink plenty of fluids to
replace that lost through vomiting and diarrhoea. To prevent
transmission, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
Avoid contact with contaminated objects, food and avoid
close contact with people infected with the bug for up to 3
days after they're feeling better.

Further support and advice

The Heath Protection Agency provides some further
information on Norovirus and also answer some frequently
asked questions.