Winter virus warning

A Renfrewshire doctor is warning the public about the side effects of a winter vomiting bug.

Dr Iain Kennedy, from the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Public Health Protection Unit, said anyone who is unfortunate enough to catch Norovirus must stay away from others for 48 hours after the bug has left their system.

Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK and it can lead to persistent vomiting and diarrhoea.

An outbreak of the highly infectious bug forced Paisley’s Royal Alexandra Hospital to stop admitting new patients to some of its wards in October last year.

With the colder weather setting in, Dr Kennedy said that while there is no vaccine or medication to get rid of Norovirus, steps can be taken to prevent it from spreading.

“This is a horrible bug which can leave those who catch it hanging over the toilet bowl for hours and hours,” he said.

“It is very infectious, so it’s really important to reduce contact with other people to stop it from being passed on.

“If you catch the virus don’t go to work. Don’t share towels, toothbrushes or anything which could easily spread the infection.

“Hand hygiene is also key. Hand sanitiser won’t do the trick when is comes to keeping clean — use warm, soapy water every time.”

The doctor also emphasised the importance of staying hydrated.

“While this bug is only in your system for around 48 hours at the most, it is still pretty unpleasant,” he added.

“Make sure you drink plenty of water to keep fluids up — this will help get rid of Norovirus as quickly as possible.”

Dr Kennedy explained that there are members of the community who may suffer more should they become infected.

“Older people or those with other infections are often more vulnerable at this time of year when it comes to bugs,” he said.

“If you are suffering from symptoms more than two days later, call the NHS 111 helpline.”

For more advice, visit www.nhs.co.uk/conditions/ norovirus