Key symptoms of winter bug 'wiping people out' across UK at twice the normal rate

A winter virus is 'wiping people out' across the UK at twice the normal rate for this time of year. Norovirus causes sickness and diarrhea lasting for around 48-hours.

The nasty illness is also known as the 'winter vomiting bug' and it is highly contagious. According to experts, cases of the virus have arrived earlier than usual this year.

NHS figures show how infections soared from 29 per cent between September 23 and October 6. This is twice the typical outbreak level expected for this time of year, The Mirror reports.

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With that in mind, the primary symptoms of the illness to look out for are are feeling and being sick, as well as diarrhoea. You could also get a high temperature, headaches, and aching in your arms and legs. Usually, these symptoms will start suddenly within 24-48 hours of infection.

You will usually begin feeling better after two to three days. To treat the illness at home, you should rest and take on plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. By knowing how norovirus is spread, you can take a number of steps to protect yourself.

You can catch norovirus by having close contact with someone who already has the virus. It can also be picked up from touching surfaces or objects that have had the virus on them, and then touching your face or mouth so washing hands thoroughly is a must.

You could also pick it up by eating food prepared by someone with it. Alcohol hand gels do not kill it, experts have warned.

Health officials are advising a strict self-isolation period of 48 hours after symptoms of the bug appear to prevent its spread at workplaces and schools. It's also recommended that people avoid visiting medical facilities and care homes to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to more vulnerable individuals.

Concerns have been raised as statistics suggest hospital-acquired infection rates are currently 22 per cent higher than usual. Amy Douglas from the UK Health Security Agency, who specialises in epidemiology, said: "Norovirus levels have remained higher than expected recently and cases are likely to increase."

She added: "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.

"Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so don't rely on these alone."

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