AS the “winter vomiting season” approaches, Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group is reminding people to stay at home if they begin to show symptoms.

The winter vomiting bug, or Norovirus, is the most common stomach bug in the UK.

There is no treatment but it is important to keep hydrated to combat the loss of fluids. Most people will recover within a few days and there are no long-term effects. 

It is vital that people who may have norovirus do not visit hospitals, their GP surgery or other NHS premises in case they give the virus to someone else.

Instead, you should call NHS 111 for advice.

Dr Pete Naylor, acting chair of the CCG, said: “You can help stop the virus spreading by washing your hands frequently, not sharing towels and flannels and disinfecting surfaces that an infected person has touched.

“If you have norovirus, you may continue to be infectious for a short period after your symptoms stop. You should therefore avoid preparing food and direct contact with others for at least 48 hours after your symptoms disappear.”

The first sign of norovirus is usually suddenly feeling sick followed by forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea.

Some people may also have:

  • A raised temperature (over 38°C/100.4°F)
  • Headaches 
  • Painful stomach cramps
  • Aching limbs

Symptoms usually appear one to two days after you become infected, but they can start sooner.

Most people make a full recovery within a couple of days.

Apart from the risk of dehydration, norovirus isn't usually dangerous and there are no long-lasting effects from having the illness. However, it can be pretty unpleasant while you have it.