Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
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.
07 June 2019
Get hitched without a hitch! Here are our top tips on how to choose your perfect wedding location abroad, covering everything from food to legalities.
[more...]
03 June 2019
Want to get into surfing but not sure where to go? Here's where you should be heading to get the best beginner waves around the world.
Heading to the showpiece event of women's football in France this summer? Here's everything you need to know about England's venues for France 2019.
Get more out of your smartphone when you go travelling by downloading these travel apps and make your trip easier at the touch of a button.
24 May 2019
Heading to the football in Baku but don't know what else to do? Explore the hip and trendy crossroad of Europe and the Middle East and experience the fast-growing phenomenon, Azerbaijan.
Two of London's top football teams head east in search of silverware on May 29. If you're heading to Baku for the final, here's our guide on what you need to know before you go...
17 May 2019
There's more to Monaco than the Grand Prix. Discover the magic of the Mediterranean principality with our guide to what you must see in Monaco.
15 May 2019
Are you heading to one of Europe's best music festivals this summer? Then make sure you read our top ten tips before you leave...
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.