The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) has issued a public advisory warning that norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, is currently circulating at high levels in the community.
Norovirus is a highly infectious virus that causes gastroenteritis and is one of the most common causes of outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhoea, particularly during the colder months. The HPSC has reminded the public that the virus spreads easily through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and shared environments — meaning good hygiene is especially important in households, schools, workplaces and healthcare settings.
The most common symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhoea, often accompanied by nausea, stomach cramps, fever, headache and fatigue. While most cases resolve within a couple of days, norovirus can be more serious for vulnerable groups such as older people, young children, and those with weakened immune systems due to the risk of dehydration.
Health advice recommends that anyone who is unwell should remain away from work, school or childcare until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, as people may still be infectious during this period. The public is also urged to avoid visiting hospitals, nursing homes or other care settings while recovering, in order to protect vulnerable patients and residents.
Handwashing is considered one of the most important preventative measures. The HPSC has advised that hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet, changing nappies, or before preparing food. Cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces is also crucial where a person has been ill.
The advisory comes as winter infections continue to place pressure on services, with health officials encouraging the public to take simple steps to reduce spread.
