Irish health officials have raised the alarm over a rise in cases of Norovirus - the winter vomiting bug - as new advice for the public is published.
The HSE’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre is urging people to be aware of the symptoms of norovirus and to use their advice to actively stop the spread of infection.
Norovirus is an easily spread illness that causes sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhoea.
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The HPSC has confirmed today that in the first 10 weeks of 2023, there have been 394 cases of norovirus recorded - almost four times the number of cases recorded in the first 10 weeks of 2022, which was 109.
Those most susceptible to the virus are young children and the elderly, with more than half of the cases (50%) aged over 65 years and (28%) of cases aged under 5 years.
Speaking about the recent hike in cases, Dr. Paul McKeown, HPSC consultant in public health medicine, HSE said: “Norovirus is very easily spread between people, but it also lasts for a long time on surfaces, and if you touch a surface contaminated with norovirus and then touch your mouth, this can make you sick.
“Cleaning your hands with soap and water is the best protection against catching norovirus and it is important to note that alcohol hand gels do not work against the virus.
“People who are ill with norovirus should stay at home and not go to work, or school, and they should not visit nursing homes or hospitals until 48 hours after their symptoms have gone.
“This is the best way to protect other, often vulnerable people. If you or any family members develop forceful vomiting, do not visit your GP’s surgery without phoning ahead first.
“It is often impossible to prevent norovirus, however, taking good hygiene measures around someone who is infected can reduce your chance of getting infected".
Symptoms of Norovirus
You're likely to have norovirus if you:
feel sick
get sick (vomit)
have diarrhoea
Some people also have a slight fever, headaches, painful stomach cramps, and aching limbs.
The symptoms start 1 to 2 days after you become infected and last for up to 2 or 3 days.
Tips to prevent the spread of Norovirus
Frequent handwashing including before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.
Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using a bleach-based household cleaner.
Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with the virus after an episode of illness (use hot water and soap).
Flush or discard any vomit and/or faeces in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.
Dr. McKeown continued, “Norovirus infection is usually mild and lasts only a day or two. However, young children and elderly people can become very sick.
“People who get sick with norovirus can still spread the infection after their symptoms have gone and there is no treatment for norovirus infection.
“As a result of pandemic restrictions, there was very little norovirus reported in the last few years, but over the last number of months, cases are beginning to rise again.
“In the US and the UK, they have seen quite high levels of norovirus that are continuing to rise. It is possible that levels of norovirus in Ireland will continue to rise further.”
The public is being urged to visit the HSE website to find out more about the norovirus. In addition, new guidance on managing norovirus in residential care settings has been published by the HPSC here.
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