The HSE has warned that norovirus is spreading rapidly across Ireland, and has urged people to stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea have passed to help curb the outbreak.
Health officials are urging people to look out for some of the telltale signs of a nasty winter bug that is currently spreading "at high levels" in Ireland. The HSE has reported a surge in cases of norovirus and has warned that this trend is expected to continue "for the next number of weeks".
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads easily through close contact, contaminated surfaces and food, making it difficult to contain once an outbreak begins. In an update issued earlier this week, the HSE said: "Norovirus, a very common cause of gastroenteritis, is currently circulating at high levels in the community and these levels are likely to continue for the next number of weeks. Norovirus , which causes vomiting and diarrhoea, is highly infectious and easily spread by close contact between people." The seasonal surge of norovirus comes at a time when Ireland is already dealing with high levels of influenza, RSV and Covid. The HSE says these viruses combined are placing increased pressure on hospitals and healthcare services. It explained: "Norovirus normally surges in winter, often boosted by increased socialising. At this time of year, when we still have a lot of influenza, RSV and COVID-19, high levels of norovirus, combined with pressures from circulating respiratory infections, can place severe demands on healthcare services." The health officials have stressed that while norovirus is unpleasant, most people recover quickly without medical treatment. However, to curb its spread, the HSE is advising the public to take the following precautions: It added: "Norovirus, in most people, is an unpleasant but mild illness that passes off quickly without any treatment. It can usually be managed at home - drinking plenty of fluids is usually all that is needed. It's not always possible to avoid getting norovirus, but following the above advice can help stop the virus spreading." Symptoms of Norovirus The HSE says: "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."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. You do not usually need to get medical advice unless there's a risk of a more serious problem." Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice
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