Norovirus affecting over 65 year – highest levels seen since the last ten years – A lot of people have been affected by the Norovirus this winter but in particular there has been a 66% rise in confirmed cases which is higher than the five-year average prior to the pandemic.
The majority of these cases and outbreaks have been found in care home settings which has led to the over 65 year olds being affected more than ever now than in the last ten years.
With alarming figures like this, it has prompted public health officials to educate and remind the public on simple measures they can take to reduce their chances of catching this virus and spreading it. Simple measures include good hand hygiene practices.
Most people do make a full recovery in a few days but everyone should take care to stay well hydrated – this is particularly important for young children and the elderly.
An rise in cases has also been reported from schools and hospitals too with cases in the first 2 weeks of 2023 higher than normal. Advice by healthcare professionals is to stay at home if you have the Norovirus and only return to work/school/nursery after 48 hours of symptoms being cleared. Self-treatment at home is the best option for most people and this will reduce the likelihood of spreading to others and in particular those who are more vulnerable.