Norovirus advice and update

The facts about norovirus 

Norovirus, also known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the UK, affecting people of all ages. It is highly contagious and is transmitted by contact with contaminated surfaces, an infected person, or consumption of contaminated food or water. It is a common cause of gastro-intestinal outbreaks in closed settings such as schools and nurseries, care homes and places of detention. 

Seasonal impact 

Cases and outbreaks of norovirus infection increase substantially in winter months although it continues to occur all year round. 

Figure: Norovirus laboratory reports in England by week during 2021 to 2022 and 2022 to 2023 seasons, compared with 5-season average 

 

Symptoms 

The symptoms of norovirus include sudden onset of nausea, projectile vomiting and/or diarrhoea.  

An infection with norovirus is self-limiting and most people will make a full recovery in one to two days. Good hand hygiene is important to stop the spread of the virus.    

Advice that health professionals can provide  

Advise people to:  

• Wash their hands thoroughly using soap and water and dry them after using the toilet, before preparing food and eating   

• Not rely on alcohol gels as these do not kill the virus   
• Ensure they keep hydrated – especially children and the elderly   
• Not to visit A&E or GPs whilst they have symptoms unless absolutely necessary, as this may spread the virus  
• Stay at home until they have been symptom free for 48 hours  
• Disinfect surfaces, using bleach-based disinfectants.  

The role of Health Protection Teams 

Where an outbreak is suspected such as in a care home, laboratories will test formed stool up to two weeks from onset of symptoms, as long as norovirus testing is specifically mentioned and it is clear on the request form that the case is part of an outbreak. Clinicians can call the Health Protection Team for advice about suspected outbreaks.  

 

Further resources 

Guidance for managing norovirus outbreaks in healthcare settings .pdf  

How to stop norovirus spreading - poster