Norovirus on the rise in Wiltshire
NHS bosses say they've seen a big jump in cases recently
Those nasty stomach bugs going around in Wiltshire at the moment are likely to be norovirus, according to local NHS bosses.
We're told by the Integrated Care Board for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire that cases are currently 'very high'.
The number of people infected with norovirus here in the first week of January was more than double that for the last week of Dece,ber.
The illness brings an unpleasant bout of sickness and diarrhoea for a few days, but usually passes on its own.
We're being asked to help ourselves get through it at home where possible, to avoid putting extra pressure on an already stretched NHS locally.
Norovirus outbreaks have been leading to staff absences and partial ward closures in some of the region's hospitals.
What we can do to help?
Simple and effective measure to curb the spread of norovirus include washing hands regularly.
It's also wise to avoid others when feeling unwell and not visit friends or family until at least 48 hours have passed since symptoms finished.
Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“Although norovirus usually clears up on its own in just a few days, the subsequent disruption an outbreak has on local health and care services can be every bit as unpleasant as its symptoms.
“At this very busy time, when all of our services are experiencing an intense level of sustained demand, norovirus has the potential to make a challenging situation even more difficult.
“This is why we need people across the region to support us in trying to limit the spread of this nasty winter bug. Any people who develop symptoms of norovirus should stay at home until at least 48 hours after beginning to feel better, and this means not going to school or work, and especially staying away from health and care settings, such as GP practices and hospitals.
“Washing hands with soap and water is one of the most effective ways of killing norovirus bacteria and preventing further transmission, as is regularly wiping down surfaces, such as where food is prepared and flush handles on shared toilets.”
While the symptoms of norovirus can usually be managed effectively at home, some people, including young children and those who are older, may be at a higher risk of becoming severely unwell, especially through dehydration.
People with norovirus and in need of medical help should avoid visiting services in-person, and instead make use of NHS111 online or call their local pharmacy or GP practice.