Norovirus outbreak making Brits feel 'worst they've ever felt' sweeps country

Alarming figures from the NHS show infections have soared by 29 per cent between September 23 and October 6, a notable increase that is twice the typical outbreak level expected for this time of year

Brits are being warned that a severe illness is striking earlier and felling people in greater numbers than usual this autumn.

The highly infectious norovirus bug is more commonly seen in the winter months, but this year it has arrived early, experts have said.

Figures from the NHS show that infections have soared by 29 per cent between September 23 and October 6, a startling increase that is twice the typical outbreak level expected for this time of year.

Below is everything you need to know about the virus and how you can prepare for the outbreak and protect yourself and your loved ones. Norovirus has deeply unpleasant symptoms and leaves sufferers unable to do much beyond rest and wait for the worst of the illness to pass. The three main symptoms of this stomach bug are feeling nauseous, experiencing diarrhoea, and then actually vomiting, reports CoventryLive.

Headaches, aches and pains in your arms and legs and a high temperature are also commonly experienced by sufferers. These can come on suddenly a day or two after you have been exposed to the illness. The main thing to do when suffering from norovirus is to maintain your fluid intake, as you'll be losing a lot of it through two of the three main symptoms. Small sips might be the best approach to prevent a sensitive stomach from reacting.

For those feeling the aftermath of seasonal indulgence, over-the-counter painkillers might offer some relief. However, when you're ready for food again, try sticking to bland meals instead of rich or spicy dishes. In a bid to avoid catching the notorious norovirus, keep a close eye on high-contact surfaces, like door handles, and ensure you wash your hands thoroughly.

Health officials are advising a strict self-isolation period of 48 hours after symptoms of the bug appear to prevent its spread at workplaces and schools. It's also recommended that people avoid visiting medical facilities and care homes to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to more vulnerable individuals.

Fresh concerns have been raised as statistics suggest hospital-acquired infection rates are currently 22% higher than usual, fuelling anxiety in medical circles. Amy Douglas from the UK Health Security Agency, who specialises in epidemiology, cautioned: "Norovirus levels have remained higher than expected recently and cases are likely to increase."

Douglas's advice is straightforward for anyone struck down by the virus: stay isolated and minimise contact. "Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped, and don't prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings."

Questions also arise regarding the effectiveness of hand sanitisers against norovirus, something the public is keen to know amidst the spread. Douglas, an expert in the field, warns that relying solely on hand sanitiser is not enough. "Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so don't rely on these alone," she explains, pointing out that common hand gels are not effective against this virus.

She underlines that thorough handwashing, which gained emphasis during the Covid pandemic, is essential for protection. Douglas recommends: "Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading."