News

Massive rise in norovirus cases sweeping the country as hospital beds fill up

Sarah SmithMarch 17, 2023

Norovirus hospitalizations have skyrocketed, with an average of 840 adult hospital beds occupied by patients with the infection last week. Hospital admissions are up 52 percent from the previous week, according to the NHS. In addition, the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have shown that the number of norovirus cases is now 47 percent higher than the five-year pre-Covid average.

Called “winter vomiting” by the NHS, the main symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Those infected may also have a high fever, headache, and pain in the arms and legs.

“Symptoms appear suddenly within one to two days of infection,” the health authority adds.

The people most affected by the outbreak fall into two categories: people over 65 and children under the age of five.

READ MORE: What led to the sudden demise of Hollywood icon Richard Boone?

Most people can manage their illness at home by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, and resting.

Although people are strongly advised not to go to work or school to prevent the spread of the virus, most people recover completely within three days.

“Don’t go to school or work until you’ve been sick or have had diarrhea for at least two days,” the NHS advises.

Norovirus can spread between people quite easily, especially if the infected person is in close contact with someone else.

Do not miss…
A tidal wave of gut microbes hit the US and left thousands in agony [INSIGHT]
Norovirus cases ‘significantly’ on the rise in England – tips to reduce spread [TIPS]
Hospital cases of norovirus rose by nearly a tenth – symptoms [SYMPTOMS]

Even touching surfaces and objects that have the virus on them can lead to infection if you bring your hands to your mouth, eyes, or nose.

“Frequent handwashing with soap and water is the best way to stop its spread,” the NHS adds. “Alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.”

Most norovirus outbreaks have been reported in nursing homes, which can be problematic.

The UKHSA stated: “Older or immunocompromised people are at risk for more serious and long-term illnesses that may require treatment.

READ MORE: Myoclonus occurs in 75% of patients with “early onset” Alzheimer’s disease – can affect the hands

“Immunity to norovirus is short-lived and cross-immunity does not exist.

“So it’s possible to have multiple norovirus infections in a short period of time if you’ve been exposed to different strains.”

Be sure to contact the emergency services if any of the following occur:

If you vomit blood or vomit that looks like ground coffee
Have green or yellow-green vomit
Maybe he swallowed something poisonous
You have neck stiffness and pain when looking at bright lights
Sudden severe headache or abdominal pain.

Note that norovirus cannot be treated with antibiotics as the bug is caused by a viral (not bacterial) infection.

People who become infected with the stomach bug are at risk of dehydration, so the infected person should drink plenty of fluids.

Symptoms of dehydration may include:

Feeling thirsty
Dark yellow urine with a strong odor
Peeing less than usual
Feeling dizzy or dizzy
feeling tired
Dry mouth, lips and tongue
Sunken eyes.

“If you are feeling unwell or already sick, you may find it difficult to drink, so start with small sips and then gradually drink more,” the NHS adds.

Content Source

The Sarpy County – Latest News:
Omaha Local News || Nebraska State News || Crime and Safety News || National news || Tech News || Lifestyle News