Little-known way highly contagious vomiting bug spreads as cases spike in UK

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Norovirus is on the rise - and Brits are being warned that one common hygiene habit may not protect them against the nasty stomach bug.

The virus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea, is highly contagious and can be spread through infected food or surfaces.

It's usually associated with the winter months, but scientists at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) say that confirmed cases are currently 75% higher than would usually be expected for this time of year.

Experts believe the cold weather this spring could be to blame, alongside some recent changes in testing. Here, the Mirror explains what you need to know about norovirus, how it spreads and what to do if you catch it:

What is norovirus and what are the symptoms?

Norovirus, a common stomach bug, causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It usually goes away after around two days. According to the NHS, the symptoms are:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• diarrhoea
• being sick (vomiting)
• a high temperature
• a headache
• aching arms and legs

How does it spread?

People can catch norovirus from close contact, coming into contact with surfaces which have the virus and then touching your mouth, or by eating food which has been prepared by someone already suffering from it. Some foods, such as oysters and other raw shellfish, are a common source of the virus because they are often eaten raw.

Are you worried about catching the Norovirus? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

Will hand sanitiser protect me against norovirus?

No. Unlike other viruses, alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus. While many think using alcohol hand gel will help it is important to remember that washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water will help protect you.

What should I do if I get it?

Anyone who suspects they may have norovirus is urged to stay off school or work and avoid hospitals or care homes. Make sure you get plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids. Most people start to feel better in two to three days.

Are cases on the rise?

They are on the rise, and are higher than would typically be expected for this time of year. In April, confirmed cases of norovirus were at 75% above the usual five-year average for the same four-week period.

The UKHSA is currently investigating the cause, and have said "multiple factors" may be contributing to the unexpected numbers. This includes changes in testing since the Covid pandemic and the chilly spring weather. Amy Douglas, Norovirus Epidemiologist at UKHSA said: "Norovirus levels were higher in April than we would usually see at this time of year and have been increasing. This is likely due to a combination of factors, but the colder weather we have had won't have helped. Norovirus can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids.

"If you have got diarrhoea and vomiting, you can 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.

"Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don't rely on these alone."