Cases of Norovirus increased by 83% this year

3,046 cases of norovirus confirmed; 83per cent higher compared to same period last year.

14:06 19 December 2012

Based on the latest figures from Health Protection Agency (HPA), 120,000 more people caught the norovirus winter bug last week. Norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhea, is usually short-lived but thought to be highly contagious.

 

According to reports, the number of cases has risen in the last two weeks, when the confirmed number of cases was already 64per cent higher compared to the same period last year. This week, it’s 83per cent more.

HPA supposedly believe that for every confirmed case, there are 288 unreported. On that basis, they believe that there are now 877,000 people who are or were affected by the virus. However, this number is expected to rise even more as majority of cases come from January to March, 2012.

 

John Harris, who gave advice to those who are affected by the virus, said: “Norovirus is very contagious so we would urge anyone who thinks they may be unwell with norovirus to stay at home and stay away from hospitals and care homes.

 

“The infection is short-lived although it is very unpleasant while you are unwell. Most people will not need to go to see their doctor and will recover in a couple of days. It is important to take plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.”