Help stop norovirus spreading as cases rise in Swindon

Across the country, Norovirus cases have risen again this week, with data from the UK Health Security Agency showing that cases were 18.3 per cent higher than the previous two-week period.

In Swindon, the number of norovirus cases also continues to rise, with Great Western Hospital currently caring for around six patients, up from zero two weeks ago.

As the virus continues to spread, people are reminded of the steps they can take to reduce further transmission.

Washing hands regularly with warm soapy water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces where possible are the best steps people can take to protect themselves and reduce the spread. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus.

While older people continue to account for most cases of the vomiting bug, activity has also increased in children under the age of 5 in recent weeks.

With this increase among nursery-age children, parents are advised to lead by example and encourage good hygiene habits.

Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus activity has remained high in recent weeks, particularly among those aged 65 years and over and is now rising in children aged under 5 years too. Outbreaks in hospital settings have increased too, so please remember the simple steps we can all take to stop norovirus spreading.

“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.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, don’t 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 to those most vulnerable.”

NHS National Medical Director Professor Meghana Pandit said: 

“Seasonal viruses continue to cause disruption and take up hospital beds, with cases of the winter vomiting bug triple what they were at the start of the month.

“You can prevent the spread of norovirus by frequent handwashing with soap and water and not returning to work, school or visiting hospitals until you are 48 hours symptom-free.”