how to recover from norovirus
how to recover from norovirus Public Domain Photos - Pixabay

While norovirus infection generally is not life-threatening, some factors can put your health at serious risk. Children and older adults who have weak immune systems may experience severe dehydration and malnutrition when infected with norovirus.

Because the norovirus is highly contagious, avoiding cramped or crowded areas like classrooms, offices, and hospitals is an important step in preventing yourself from being infected. If you have already been bitten by the winter sickness bug, there are ways on how to quickly recover and prevent the virus from spreading further.

Watch out for Symptoms

The onset of norovirus symptoms oftentimes appears quickly. These include projectile vomiting, having a slight fever, aching limbs and headaches, watery diarrhea, suddenly feeling sick, and stomach cramps.

Stay Hydrated

You can control norovirus symptoms by drinking small amounts, yet numerous sips of water. You can stay hydrated by doing this. If you are already suffering from diarrhea, buy some rehydration solutions from the nearest pharmacy. Boots pharmacy has a powder mixture which you can add to water to create a solution that contains the exact balance of salts and sugars to ensure you stay hydrated.

The virus has a moderately short life, and its symptoms can last for only a couple of days. Nevertheless, you should be responsible enough to avoid going back to your office or sending your children back to school unless you are all symptom-free for three days.

Avoid Infected Places/Persons

Anyone is at risk of being infected, particularly during the winter months when the rooms in offices, schools, and hospitals are closed to keep out the cold. It is spread by coming into close contact with someone who is already infected, or touching surfaces or eating food contaminated with norovirus. Because it is highly contagious, there is a need to practice good hygiene habits like washing your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap.

Prevent Its Spread

If you or a family member starts showing norovirus symptoms, it is recommended you stay home and avoid going to your office or sending your kids to school. Avoid places like care homes and hospitals to prevent the virus from spreading and infect, particularly those with a weak immune system.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you are starting to feel severely dehydrated, or you believe you already need medical advice, call your doctor immediately or contact NHS 111. Getting medical assistance at the earliest can save your life.