18/01/2026
🤢💩 Caught norovirus? - here's our quick guide on what to do to help you feel better and prevent it from spreading to others.
TREATING NOROVIRUS
🔹 take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains
🔹 get plenty of rest
🔹 use special rehydration drinks if you have signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or dark urine. These are available in community pharmacies
Norovirus can be very unpleasant but usually clears up by itself in a few days. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home.
⚠️Avoid going to your GP, as norovirus can spread to others very easily.
📱Phone your GP practice or NHS 24 on 111 if you’re concerned or need advice.
PREVENTING THE SPREAD
🔹 stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the norovirus symptoms have stopped
🔹 avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time
🔹 wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water particularly after using the toilet and before preparing or handling food
🔹 be aware alcohol-based hand gels don’t kill the virus
🔹 disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated, using a bleach-based household cleaner.
🔹 wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash (60°C)
🔹 do not share towels and flannels
🔹 flush any poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area with a bleach-based household cleaner
🔹 avoid eating raw, unwashed food
🔹 only eat oysters from a reliable source as they can carry norovirus
Remember norovirus spreads very easily in public places such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools. Follow our hygiene tips above to prevent the virus from spreading further!
