Dr Chris Steele talks on video about the Winter Vomiting Bug, Norovirus.

Video Health: Winter Vomiting Bug (Norovirus)

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Norovirus refers to a group of viruses that are the most common cause of stomach upsets (gastroenteritis) in the UK. As these viruses tend to be more common in thr Winter months, and their symptoms are particularly virulent, Norovirus is normally refered to as the "Winter Vomiting Bug".

Symptoms
Obviously vomiting, often violent, projectile vomiting that can be very distressing to experience or witness. Also extensive diarrhoea. Fever and flu-like symptoms may also occur. Because immunity to norovirus is short-lived, both children and adults can be affected. This is in contrast to the much more serious rotovirus, which mainly affects children only.

What do if family members are suffering
Norovirus is very infectious, therefore hygiene is vital. Frequent washing of hands is highly recommended, especially if you have been cleaning up after a sick family member. Bathrooms should be cleaned regularly, and surfaces such as taps and door handles as well. If you become infected yourself, you should not prepare or handle food for others for at least three days after the infection has passsed.

Treatment
There is no treatment as such, other than rest. However due to the loss of fluids caused by the vomiting and the diarrhoea you should guard against dehydration.

Adults can take anti-diarrhoea medicines available from pharmacists, but these should not be given to babies or children, as they can have serious side-effects.

To treat fluid loss you can take plenty of water, fruit juice etc, but NOT fizzy drinks. You can also also take so-called electrolyte replacement powders, such as Dioralyte, which help to replace lost fluids and body salts.
This content was created on Sun 18 February 2007

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