Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
23 October 2017 09:12
Symptoms of norovirus include diarrhoea, vomiting and nausea
Experts are advising anyone with the highly-contagious norovirus to avoid handling food for 48 hours, so it has less chance of spreading to others.
Emergence of the vomiting bug - often referred to as "winter vomiting bug" as it's known to soar during the colder months - has prompted Public Health England (PHE) to issue guidance to prevent a widespread outbreak.
"Those who have diarrhoea and vomiting should not prepare food until 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared," says Nick Phin, national infection service deputy director at PHE.
The health body's guidance comes as a timely reminder for holidaymakers of the importance of having medical travel insurance.
Unpleasant symptoms
Diarrhoea, vomiting and nausea are all symptoms of norovirus.
The NHS reports that some sufferers may also experience a slight fever, stomach cramps, aching limbs and headaches.
Mr Phin says the "unpleasant" bug is highly contagious, but symptoms only last for a couple of days.
"Most people get over it within a day or two but in the very young, elderly or those who have weakened immune systems it can last longer and it is easy to get dehydrated, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent this," Mr Phin continued.
Limiting contact
The virus can be passed to others through skin-on-skin contact, such as shaking hands.
However, it can also be picked up off worktops, door handles and taps, and PHE calls on anyone with the virus to fully disinfect surfaces to prevent its spread.
"We advise that they should avoid visiting GP surgeries, care homes and hospitals if they have symptoms. If anyone has symptoms and is concerned they should contact NHS 111 or talk to their GP by phone," added Mr Phin.
02 December 2019
Reduce your screen time and commit to some me time at some of our favourite detox destinations.
[more...]
09 December 2019
We asked for the tale behind tea and found ourselves more infused than ever.
Marvel at views of the world's most spectacular peaks.
Marvel at the world's most magnificent creatures in untouched corners of the globe.
28 November 2019
Forget stopovers, sleeping pills and binging on in-flight entertainment. A slice of winter sun is just a short flight away.
Will you see in 2020 from a totally new destination? See how they celebrate around the world.
18 November 2019
Keen to get under the skin of the samba city? Take a look at some of the must-sees and must-dos in Rio de Janeiro.
While the Amazon amazes, there's much more to Brazil than the world's largest rainforest. Join us for an expedition into the country's lesser known natural attractions.
12 November 2019
The nation on the Nile offers intrigue beyond your wildest imagination. Check out our top 5 things to see and do.
Immerse yourself in the food, parades and spirit of America's favourite holiday, across five unique locations.
04 November 2019
Head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun, sea and spectacles of the wild kind.
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...