A highly contagious stomach bug is currently circulating at high levels across Ireland, with flu cases also on the rise, putting extra pressure on health and care services, the HSE has warned
Norovirus is exceptionally contagious and usually triggers vomiting and diarrhoea(Image: Getty Images)
Health authorities in Ireland have issued an urgent alert to workers experiencing two key symptoms, as a highly infectious stomach bug remains at “high levels” nationwide.
Norovirus – commonly referred to as the winter vomiting bug – is exceptionally contagious and usually triggers vomiting and diarrhoea. The virus transmits readily via close contact, contaminated surfaces and food, which makes controlling outbreaks challenging once they take hold, reports the Irish Mirror.
In a bulletin released yesterday, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) stated: “Norovirus, a very common cause of gastroenteritis, is currently circulating at high levels in the community. Norovirus (often called the winter vomiting bug), causes vomiting and diarrhoea and is highly infectious, easily spread by close contact between people.”
The alert arrives as Ireland simultaneously battles elevated flu levels, which according to the HSE is “putting extra pressure on health and care services”.
The HSE noted: “This seasonal surge in norovirus is coinciding with high levels of flu cases, putting extra pressure on health and care services. Outbreaks of norovirus and flu in hospitals and nursing homes can cause serious disruption and increase risks for patients and staff. Your actions make a difference. We can all help by taking simple precautions: If you have respiratory symptoms, or vomiting or diarrhoea, do not visit hospitals, nursing homes, or vulnerable people at home. Avoid social visits to care settings while unwell.”
Health officials have emphasised that while norovirus is unpleasant, most people recover swiftly without medical intervention and staying hydrated is usually sufficient. However, to limit the spread, the HSE is encouraging the public to take precautions, including refraining from going to work if they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea.
The advice is to stay away from work or school for at least 48 hours after symptoms cease, avoid visiting hospitals, care homes or vulnerable individuals, and abstain from socialising while ill and for two days afterwards.
Those suffering from vomiting or diarrhoea are also advised to avoid attending Emergency Departments where possible, and instead seek advice from a pharmacist or GP by phone. The HSE has warned that introducing norovirus into health or care settings can result in staff illness, service disruption or even closures, while vulnerable patients face significant risks if infected.
However, those who feel seriously unwell should still attend the Emergency Department, but should inform staff at reception if they have vomiting or diarrhoea so appropriate precautions can be taken.
The public is being urged to frequently and thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water, as alcohol-based hand gels are ineffective against norovirus. It’s recommended to disinfect potentially contaminated surfaces using a bleach-based cleaner, and to launder any affected clothing or bedding separately on a hot cycle.
Sharing towels and face cloths should be avoided, and any vomit or infected waste should be flushed away and the surrounding area cleaned thoroughly. People are also advised to steer clear of consuming raw, unwashed food produce.
The HSE stated: “Norovirus causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It is one of the most common stomach bugs in Ireland. It’s also called the ‘winter vomiting bug’. This is because it’s more common in winter. But you can catch it at any time of the year.
“Norovirus can be unpleasant but it usually clears up by itself in a few days. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home. Try to avoid going to your GP, as norovirus can spread to others very easily.
“You’re likely to have norovirus if you:
feel sickget sick (vomit)have diarrhoea
“Some people also have a slight fever, headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching limbs. The symptoms start one to two days after you become infected and last for up to two or three days.
“The best thing to do is to stay at home until you’re feeling better. There’s no cure for norovirus, so you have to let it run its course. Antibiotics will not help because it’s caused by a virus. You do not usually need to get medical advice unless there’s a risk of a more serious problem.”
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