UK ISSUES URGENT WA:RNING OVER RISING STOMACH BUG CASES

People across the UK are being warned about a rapidly spreading illness that can force sufferers to stay indoors for days.

Hospitals nationwide have released urgent guidance, advising those affected to remain at home and manage symptoms themselves, as NHS services struggle under increased pressure from flu and stomach bug cases.

HEALTH OFFICIALS URGE PEOPLE TO STAY HOME

Medical authorities stress that anyone infected should remain at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.

Ignoring this advice could lead to the virus spreading further, particularly to people at higher risk of severe illness or complications, including the elderly.

SHARP RISE IN CASE NUMBERS REPORTED

Recent laboratory data shows a significant increase in cases during the first two weeks of January.

Reports indicate infections are around 47% higher than in December, raising concerns among health officials about continued transmission through winter.

WHAT IS THE ILLNESS?

The illness behind the surge is norovirus, commonly referred to as the winter vomiting bug.

The NHS explains that norovirus is a stomach infection that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. While extremely unpleasant, it typically clears up within about two days.

WHO IS MOST AFFECTED?

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the virus is affecting people of all ages, but older adults are experiencing the most severe impact.

UKHSA has described the illness as “unpleasant for everyone,” especially due to the intensity of symptoms.

COMMON SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR

Symptoms of norovirus can include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Body aches
• Fever

These symptoms can appear suddenly and make daily activities difficult.

OFFICIAL ADVICE FROM UKHSA

In a post on X, UKHSA shared guidance on how to limit the spread of norovirus.

They advise anyone who becomes ill to stay at home for 48 hours after symptoms fully disappear.

HOW TO PREVENT SPREADING THE VIRUS

Health officials recommend:

• Washing hands frequently with warm water and soap
• Cleaning surfaces using bleach-based products
• Avoiding alcohol hand gels, as they are ineffective against norovirus

NHS GUIDANCE FOR RECOVERY AT HOME

The NHS advises people with symptoms to:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration
• Continue feeding babies as normal, offering small sips of water between feeds
• Use pain relief such as paracetamol if needed

WHEN TO STAY AWAY FROM OTHERS

The NHS reminds the public that vomiting and diarrhoea are common and usually clear up within a few days.

However, anyone with a high temperature or who feels too unwell to carry out normal activities should stay home and avoid contact with others until they feel better.