Families 'must stay indoors for 48 hours' as virus spreads in homes

key takeaways

Although norovirus is extremely contagious, there are precautions you and your family may take in case someone in your home becomes ill. The NHS states that intimate contact with an infected individual, as well as touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching your lips, can spread the norovirus.

The virus can also spread through food that has been prepared or touched by an ill person. Alcohol hand gels do not eradicate the norovirus germs, which is another factor that makes it harder for families to stay healthy. Avoiding circumstances that could aid in its spread, such as close contact with potentially infected individuals or surfaces, is the first step in various attempts to combat it.

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This includes bedding or surfaces that have been tainted by vomit or diarrhea from a norovirus patient. The NHS recommends washing infected clothes and linens with detergent at a hot 60 degrees Celsius and, if at all feasible, handling them with gloves.

If possible, disinfect any similarly contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based cleaning product. It's worth noting that families with pets may need to take extra precautions as these products can be toxic to animals.

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water can halt the spread, and it's best to keep those who are ill away from the kitchen or any food being shared by the household until their symptoms have ceased for at least 48 hours. Those who have contracted the vomiting bug are advised to stay off work or school until they have not experienced any vomiting or diarrhoea for at least two days.

It's also advisable not to visit spaces with potentially vulnerable people such as hospitals or care homes during this time. Norovirus can often be treated at home by ensuring the ill person gets plenty of rest and fluids to avoid dehydration.

They usually start feeling better within two to three days, however, if your vomit starts looking like ground coffee, blood or gets a green or yellow-green tint, it's best to seek urgent medical assistance.