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Norovirus, more often referred to as stomach flu or the vomiting bug, is sweeping across the country and has overtaken flu as the most prevalent illness this January. The impact of this virus is only now being felt after the Christmas holidays.

 

“Close contact, especially at this time of year, combined with the cold, creates a perfect scenario for the spread of norovirus. In addition, crowds and constant changes between groups contribute to the bubbles of interaction not being completely closed,” explained Dr Luis Tejedor, head of the Internal Medicine and Geriatrics Department at Vithas Madrid Arturo Soria University Hospital.

 

Thousands of cases have already been reported so far this year all over the country, and the symptoms of norovirus range from stomach cramps and nausea to vomiting, diarrhoea and general malaise.

 

While these symptoms are extremely unpleasant, they generally don’t last for more than 48 or 72 hours, and they usually clear up by themselves. However, it’s very easy to become dehydrated, so doctors recommend that patients drink around 2 or 3 litres of water per day in small but frequent doses.

 

Isotonic drinks should not be used because “many of them have a high concentration of sugar and electrolytes which can be counterproductive,” according to the expert.

 

While rehydration sachets are readily available in pharmacies and can be useful for very young or elderly patients, it’s actually simple to whip up the formula at some: just mix one litre of boiled or bottled water with half a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda, 2 or 3 spoons of sugar and a touch of lemon juice.

 

Vomiting bugs are extremely contagious and although the symptoms are generally mild, the virus can be dangerous for at-risk groups.

 

As with many infectious diseases, the best deterrent is frequent hand-washing with soap and water. This basic measure is known to reduce your chance of catching or spreading norovirus by more than 40%.

 

 

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