If you’ve been feeling under the weather lately, you’re not alone. Reports suggest that a stomach bug is making its rounds across the UK, leaving many people dealing with unpleasant symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. But what’s causing this, and how can you protect yourself? Let’s break it down in detail.
What’s Behind the Stomach Bug?
The primary culprit behind this wave of illness is the norovirus, a highly contagious virus that spreads rapidly, especially during colder months. Often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” norovirus doesn’t limit itself to winter, it can strike at any time of the year. This virus thrives in environments where people are in close contact, such as schools, offices, public transport, and even at home.
Norovirus is notorious for its ability to survive on surfaces for days, making it easy to pick up if you’re not careful. It’s also resistant to many common disinfectants, which adds to its persistence.
How Does It Spread?
Understanding how the stomach bug spreads is key to avoiding it. The virus can travel through:
Direct Contact:
Touching or being near someone who’s infected, especially if they’ve recently vomited or had diarrhoea.
Contaminated Surfaces:
Doorknobs, handrails, shared utensils, and even your phone can harbour the virus.
Food or Water:
Consuming food or drinks that have been contaminated by an infected person.
Just a tiny amount of the virus is enough to make you sick, which is why it’s so tricky to avoid.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
The symptoms of norovirus are hard to ignore. They usually appear suddenly and can include:
Nausea and Vomiting:
Often the first signs, and they can be severe.
Diarrhoea:
Watery and frequent, which can lead to dehydration.
Stomach Pain or Cramps:
These can range from mild to intense.
Mild Fever or Headache:
Not everyone experiences this, but it’s possible.
Fatigue and Muscle Aches:
The virus can leave you feeling drained and achy.
These symptoms typically last 1 to 3 days, but they can leave you feeling weak, harsh skin and tired for several days after.
How to Protect Yourself?
The good news is, you can take steps to reduce your risk of catching the stomach bug. Here’s what you need to do:
Wash Your Hands Frequently:
Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, before eating, or after being in public places. Hand sanitiser is not as effective against norovirus, so stick to soap and water whenever possible.
Disinfect Surfaces:
Clean commonly touched areas like countertops, phones, keyboards, and doorknobs with a bleach-based cleaner. Norovirus can survive on surfaces for days, so regular cleaning is essential.
Avoid Close Contact:
If someone around you is sick, keep your distance until they’ve fully recovered. Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with them.
Stay Hydrated:
If you do catch the bug, drink plenty of fluids like water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths to avoid dehydration.
Handle Food Safely:
If you’re preparing food, wash your hands thoroughly and ensure all fruits and vegetables are cleaned properly. Avoid cooking for others if you’re feeling unwell.
When to Seek Help
Most people recover from norovirus without medical treatment, but there are times when you should seek help. Contact a doctor if:
- Symptoms last more than a few days.
- You notice signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination.
- You’re unable to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours.
- You experience severe abdominal pain or blood in your stool.
What to Do If You Catch the Bug
If you do fall ill, here’s how to manage the symptoms:
- Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus, so take it easy.
- Stay Hydrated: Sip small amounts of water or oral rehydration solutions frequently.
- Eat Light: Stick to bland foods like toast, rice, or bananas once you’re able to eat.
- Avoid Spreading It: Stay home from work or school until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared to avoid infecting others.
Why Is It So Common Right Now?
Norovirus tends to peak during the winter months, but it can circulate year-round. The current spike in cases could be due to a combination of factors, including:
- Increased Indoor Activity: Colder weather means people spend more time indoors, making it easier for the virus to spread.
- Weakened Immunity: After the flu season, some people’s immune systems may be more vulnerable.
- Travel and Social Gatherings: The holiday season often involves travel and large gatherings, which can facilitate the spread of the virus.
Final Thoughts
While the stomach bug can be a nuisance, it’s usually short-lived. By staying vigilant and practising good hygiene, you can lower your chances of catching it. If you do fall ill, rest up, stay hydrated, and give your body time to recover.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. So, wash those hands, clean those surfaces, and stay safe, London!
