Norovirus has spread among 30 athletes and team members at the World Athletics Championships in London, with Botswana's Isaac Makwala refused entry to the London Stadium after being diagnosed with the highly contagious bug. But just what is norovirus and how does it spread? We've rounded up all you need to know…
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common stomach bug in the UK and it is estimated to affect between 600,000 and 1 million people in the UK each year.
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How does Norovirus spread?
Norovirus spreads very easy in public places, and can be passed on through contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. A person with norovirus is most infectious from when their symptoms begin until 48 hours after all their symptoms have passed, but they may still be infectious for a short time before and after this.
© Photo: Getty ImagesIsaac Makwala was refused entry to the London Stadium after contracting Norovirus
What are the symptoms of Norovirus?
Symptoms of norovirus include the following, and typically last for two to three days…
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting
- Watery diarrhoea
- Raised temperature
- Aching limbs
How can norovirus be prevented?
You may be able to catching or spreading norovirus by trying the following…
- Practice good hand hygiene washing hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds
- Avoid eating raw or unwashed food, which could harbour the virus
- Try to avoid sharing towels and flannels
- Disinfect the toilet after each bout of sickness and diarrhoea
- If infected, stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed.
© Photo: iStockIt is important to stay hydrated if you develop the norovirus
What is the treatment for norovirus?
There is no cure for norovirus, so you have to let it run its course, however there are a few things that may help you to feel better.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Special rehydration drinks may also help if you already have signs of dehydration.
- Get plenty of rest
- Take paracetamol for any aches or pains and fever
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