Norovirus facts: After battling against the deadly Coronavirus, the United Kingdom is now dealing with an outbreak of norovirus. Public health experts say that people across all age-groups are vulnerable to this vomiting bug.
Here are 10 facts you must know about the virus
- The first case of Norovirus was reported in May and since then 154 cases of the disease have been recorded across England, according to PHE.
2. Preschool children in nurseries and childcare facilities have been hit the most due to the virus, as per official data.
3. Between 31 May and 4 July, UK saw doubling of the rates of norovirus from 105 to 236. Among these, 65 percent of the infected ones are in nurseries or schools and 30 percent are in care homes.
4. The virus spreads very easily and quickly from an infected people to others. This can happen through contaminated foods and surfaces.
5. If somebody touches an object or surface that's contaminated with norovirus and then touches his/her mouth, chances of contracting norovirus are high.
6. According to experts, the infection is normally associated with the winter months. However, the cases are currently higher than usual. This has led the authorities to issue the warning of the new outbreak in the UK.
7. Diarrhoea, projectile vomiting, nausea and stomach pain are the most common symptoms of norovirus infection.
8. Just like coronavirus, norovirus is also asymptomatic in some people. However, it mutates rapidly.
9. In a bid to protect oneself from norovirus, one needs to wash hands often, rinse fruits and vegetables before eating and stay home when sick for two days at least.
10. People infected from norovirus should refrain from preparing food for others. Don't drink contaminated water from an unclean well or pool.
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