The strain of the winter vomiting bug that first emerged in Kawasaki, Japan, is now responsible for around 70% of all norovirus cases in the UK.
The UK’s facing a stark warning from top GP Dr John Burke, as ‘Kawasaki bug’ norovirus cases hit new highs. AXA Health reports reveal cases are double those of last year, with the strain initially identified in Kawasaki, Japan in 2014 now causing 70% of UK outbreaks.
According to Dr Burke: “Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that spreads through contact and can cause sickness and diarrhoea for those infected. Often referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ cases of Norovirus soar over autumn and winter as more people spend time indoors, in close proximity to each other.”
With vast experience spanning over 25 years, Dr Burke shared crucial symptoms to spot as this nasty bug spreads. Symptoms to look out for include:
– Nausea
– Vomiting
– Diarrhoea
– High temperature
– Headaches
– Exhaustion
As grim as norovirus is, symptoms typically retreat within days as your body combats the virus. But if you’re struck down, Dr Burke suggests certain tips and pharmacy remedies to fend off the fierce symptoms.
Firstly, Dr Burke recommends sticking to bland meals that won’t irritate your stomach further. He advises: “Try to keep your meals bland while you’re unwell with norovirus, to avoid further upsetting your stomach. If you are struggling to keep food down, try small amounts of easily digestible foods such as toast and crackers.”
Dr Burke also stresses the importance of staying hydrated, saying: “With any illness that causes sickness, it’s really important to maintain fluid levels while unwell to prevent dehydration. Our bodies lose a lot of fluids through vomiting and diarrhoea therefore, you must be regularly drinking clear fluids and electrolytes when you are unwell with norovirus.”
Getting plenty of rest is also crucial, as Dr Burke notes: “When infected with norovirus, rest is essential for a quick recovery. It’s best to ensure that you are giving your body adequate time (a minimum of 48 hours) to rest and recover from the virus before returning back to work or school.”
To prevent the spread of norovirus, Dr Burke has this advice: “If you become infected with norovirus it’s essential to practise proper hygiene and cleanliness. To avoid spreading the virus further thoroughly disinfect any surfaces you come into contact with while infected and sterilise any utensils, plates or cups that you use whilst unwell.”
He warned: “When infected with norovirus it is crucial that you avoid preparing or touching food or drinks for other people to avoid contamination. Norovirus is extremely contagious, so if you become infected you will need to avoid contact with the public for a minimum of 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided.”
He emphasised the importance of staying quarantined at home when suffering from norovirus to stop the virus’s rapid spread. Excitingly, in a groundbreaking step, the UK has begun trials for the first-ever vaccine against norovirus, potentially offering a powerful weapon to combat the winter vomiting bug.
