Virus cases spike with new warning as ‘it spreads easier than you think’

Norovirus cases continue to climb, with various NHS trusts declaring a ‘critical incident’ amid a spike in admissions for norovirus and flu. The latest weekly figures from NHS England, released on January 15, revealed an average of 567 hospital beds occupied daily the previous week by patients displaying norovirus symptoms.

This represented a 57% increase from the previous week’s average of 361 and marked the highest figure for norovirus patients recorded this winter. The highly contagious virus makes understanding prevention methods crucial.

Jason Murphy, head of pharmacy at Chemist4U, explained: “Norovirus spreads much more easily than many people think. It only takes a tiny amount of the virus to make you sick, and it can survive on surfaces for days. As cases continue to rise, it’s important to go beyond basic hygiene and adopt more targeted measures to protect yourself and those around you.

“People often think or norovirus as a quick ‘in and out’ bug, but it’s incredibly stubborn and easy to pass on. As a pharmacist, I look at norovirus in two ways: how we stop it spreading, and how we can support our body while the virus runs its course. There’s no cure for the virus itself, but there’s a lot we can do to make symptoms more manageable and reduce complications like dehydration.”

Jason has provided guidance on preventing norovirus, managing symptoms and supporting recovery.

Norovirus tips and recovery advice

Treat it like a stubborn infection – Norovirus is a ‘non-enveloped virus’, making it resistant to alcohol-based hand gels and many household cleaning products. Soap and warm water can physically remove the virus from your hands, while bleach can chemically neutralise it on surfaces.

Select cleaning products as you would medicine – Opt for disinfectants labelled as ‘virucidal’ or ‘effective against non-enveloped viruses’. If it doesn’t carry this label, it’s unlikely to be effective against norovirus.

Consider the correct ‘dose’ of bleach – Proper dilution of bleach is crucial: too weak and it won’t eliminate the virus; too strong and it could irritate your lungs and skin. Always ensure the room is well-ventilated before using bleach for cleaning, and always adhere to the instructions on the bleach label.

Treat vomiting as an exposure event – In healthcare settings, vomiting is considered airborne contamination. Clean beyond the visible area, ensure good ventilation, and assume nearby soft furnishings may be contaminated.

Isolate like a mini ward – If possible, designate one bathroom, one set of towels, and one bin for the person who is ill. This mirrors hospital infection-control practices and helps curb the spread of the virus.

How to treat norovirus symptoms

Rehydration is your primary ‘treatment’ – Dehydration poses the greatest medical risk with norovirus. Electrolytes are preferable to plain water as they replenish both fluids and salts in your body.

Administer fluids like medication – Take small sips every 5-10 minutes instead of attempting to rapidly consume large drinks. This approach minimises vomiting and enhances absorption.

Pain relief – Once you’re able to retain fluids, paracetamol is the safest choice for symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body aches. If you’re dehydrated or vomiting heavily, steer clear of ibuprofen as it can aggravate your stomach and put pressure on your kidneys.

Exercise caution with anti-diarrhoea medicines – Medicines like loperamide can alleviate diarrhoea, but they’re not always recommended as diarrhoea aids in expelling the virus. They may be useful for short-term control (e.g. essential travel) but should be avoided for children or if you have a fever or blood in your stool.

Anti-sickness options – For severe nausea, a pharmacist can provide advice on anti-emetics. In persistent cases, a GP may prescribe medication to help manage vomiting and allow fluids to be retained.

Eat sparingly and lightly – When your appetite returns, begin with bland foods like toast, crackers, bananas, and rice. Until your symptoms subside, avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy-rich foods.

Rest is treatment – Your immune system combats norovirus. Ensuring you rest will expedite your recovery and minimise any complications.

Jason said: “With the right support, most people recover well from norovirus. Think of hydration, rest and symptom control as your treatment plan, and infection control as your prevention plan. When both are done properly, you protect yourself and everyone around you.”