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 October 2019
Enjoy National Pizza Month and grab a slice of history with the true story of everyone's favourite Italian flat-bread...
[more...]
Autumn is here. And while the weather outside starts to turn, you may be asking where to find October sun? Here are some of our top short-haul destinations...
19 September 2019
How do I protect my home while I'm away? Your question answered and more with our top tips for locking up your home while you're on holiday...
18 September 2019
Searching for the best things to do in Munich? Explore our top tips for things to do in the Bavarian capital...
Tummy rumbling? Discover the best Bavarian foods you can eat at Oktoberfest with our guide to some of the dishes you must try...
Who invented rugby? Ahead of the greatest rugby competition in the world, we take a look at how the game spread around the globe...
09 September 2019
What's the best place for a city break this September? Here are some of our favourite weekend destinations for a European getaway.
What's the best island to visit in Europe? Take a look at some of our top tips off the beaten track and find your very own island paradise...
02 September 2019
If you're visiting the Land of the Rising Sun for the rugby, here's everything you need to know about the World Cup's host cities...
Not ready to wave goodbye to summer? Discover our top European destinations for last-minute summer sun...
Already stressing about that 8-hour flight? Make your journey more comfortable with our top tips for flying long-haul.
Heading on holiday to Japan? Get the most out of your trip to Tokyo with these must-see places in the Japanese capital.