A SHARP rise in the number of people being admitted to hospital with norovirus is generating extra pressure for the NHS in Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES).

This comes at a time where services are already feeling the strain of the holiday season, and now have to manage an influx of people coming down with the highly contagious winter bug.

Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. While unpleasant, it will usually go away in about two days.

Local health leaders are urging people to help stop the spread by maintaining good hand hygiene, staying away from others when feeling unwell, and avoiding visits to friends and family in hospital until at least two days after symptoms have passed.

Connie Timmins, lead nurse for infection prevention and control at B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “While Norovirus can be extremely unpleasant and problematic for all who encounter it, preventing the bug from spreading is straightforward.

“At this extremely busy time for the NHS, we need people to practise the basics, and this starts with ensuring that hands are cleaned regularly, not just after using the toilet or touching untreated surfaces.

“People with symptoms that could be norovirus, such as diarrhoea and vomiting, should isolate until they feel better, and not venture out, especially to a healthcare setting like a hospital, GP practice or pharmacy, until at least 48 hours after recovery, as it may still be possible for the virus to be passed on to others.

“Following these simple steps will enable patients to focus on getting better and ensure our busy frontline teams can continue providing potentially lifesaving care to those who need it most.”

When washing hands, people are advised to use soap and water, instead of alcoholic hand gel, as sanitisers are ineffective at killing the harmful norovirus particles.

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 use NHS111 online in the first instance.

Further information about the winter vomiting bug, including how to care for children with norovirus, is on the Your Health Hub, which can be found online at www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth/vomiting-and-diarrhoea.