An increase in the number of norovirus cases across the local area is adding extra pressure to an already-busy local health and care system.
Hospitals and care homes across the region, as well as many other local health and
care settings, have reported the bug spreading among staff and patients.
Cases of norovirus, which passes very quickly from person to person and causes
symptoms, such as sickness, diarrhoea and dehydration, have been rising across the
country, with data suggesting the current number, is more than twice as high as it
was this time last year, Connie Timmins, Lead Nurse for Infection Prevention and Control, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “The best way to stop the spread of norovirus is to stay at home and away from others until at least 48 hours after symptoms have passed.
“Even if a person is no longer being sick or running to the loo, the virus may still be
present in their system, which means it can still be passed on.
“Staying at home, as well as avoiding health and care settings, including hospitals,
GP practices, pharmacies and care homes, will protect others, especially those who
are vulnerable, from falling ill.”
Washing hands regularly with soap and water can kill any lingering norovirus germs,
as can disinfect toilets, kitchen surfaces and door handles.
Antibacterial hand sanitiser should only be used as a supplement to soap and water,
as the gel on its own is ineffective against the virus.
People experiencing norovirus are advised to rest, drink plenty of fluids and follow
the guidance on how to get better listed on the NHS website, as most people will
recover in a couple of days.
Those with prolonged or worsening symptoms should not seek help in person, but
instead, use the NHS 111 online tool, which can suggest help and advice specific to a
person’s current condition.
Visiting hospitals and other health and care settings while feeling poorly with
norovirus can add significant pressure to hard-working front-line teams.
More information about local health and care services, including details on how to
use NHS 111, which can be found at www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk.
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