Norovirus plea from Cornwall's health experts as winter vomiting bug season arrives

As well as laying people low with unpleasant symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea, norovirus can cause serious problems in hospitals and care homes if brought in by visitors.

Once on the wards, the bug can lead to cancelled operations, delay recovery and prevent other patients from being admitted.

Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in England and Wales, spreading very easily. It is more prevalent during colder months, with infection rates in the community now beginning to rise in the region.

However, simple precautions can help keep people safe at home and prevent norovirus getting into health and care organisations.

Stuart Bourne, acting director of public health at Cornwall Council, said: “Norovirus and similar bugs can be very unpleasant – they really are best avoided if you possibly can. Most people get better in a day or two, but the very young or old in particular can get very dehydrated and need medical treatment.

“Luckily, there are simple things everyone can do to minimize the risk, like washing hands properly, being very careful with the handling of food and avoiding contact with other people who show symptoms.

“And if you do get a bug like this, it’s really important to make sure you don’t visit someone in hospital for at least three days after symptoms have disappeared. Otherwise you could be putting vulnerable people at real risk.”

Cornwall’s multi-agency "Winter Wellbeing" campaign includes information on how to avoid the norovirus, and other winter bugs, as well as general advice on staying warm and well during the cold season.

For more information about this, visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/winter-wellbeing/ and download a copy of the guide. You can also find copies in your local One Stop Shop, and, libraries, hospitals, job centres, food banks and health centres. Partner organisations, such as Age Concern, also have copies.