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Norovirus cases are rising – urgent advice and information

A picture of a woman being sick

Norovirus, a virus which causes diarrhoea and vomiting, is circulating in our communities. Some people may also have other symptoms such as a slight fever, headache, painful stomach cramp and aching limbs.

These symptoms may take a few days to appear (around 2-3 days) after you become infected and symptoms can typically last for up to two or three days. You may also still be infectious for a few days after your symptoms get better.

The tummy bug is unpleasant for everyone, but usually doesn’t cause any long-lasting harm.   However for vulnerable hospital patients whose immune systems might not be as strong, it can be more serious.

If you feel unwell, have any current Norovirus symptoms, or your sickness and diarrhoea has only recently stopped, please don’t visit our hospitals. Even if you feel better you could still be infectious and pass the virus on to patients and staff. 

So do not visit the wards until you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours.

If you have been caring for someone with these symptoms, please also consider you may be developing an infection, so do not visit until you are sure you have not become infected. 

We are also urging people who have Norovirus to stay at home, stay hydrated, and avoid coming to the Emergency Department. If you have sickness and diarrhoea, it usually passes by itself in a few days.

The best way to protect yourself and your family against Norovirus and other infectious illnesses is by washing your hands regularly with soap and water:

  • Especially after using the toilet
  • Before preparing or eating any food and drink.
  • Do not share towels with those who are unwell.
  • Regularly clean & disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items.

Did you know - alcohol gels and hand sanitisers are not always effective against Norovirus because they can’t penetrate the virus’s protective outer shell. (However alcohol gel and hand sanitisers do help against the Covid virus, as it’s made differently.)

Thorough handwashing, however, is effective against both.

If you are worried and need further advice  go here to try the NHS Wales 111 online symptom-checker or call 111 for 24/7 medical advice and to access the out-of-hours GP service.

 

Rydym yn croesawu gohebiaeth a galwadau ffôn yn y Gymraeg neu'r Saesneg. Atebir gohebiaeth Gymraeg yn y Gymraeg, ac ni fydd hyn yn arwain at oedi. Mae’r dudalen hon ar gael yn Gymraeg drwy bwyso’r botwm ar y dde ar frig y dudalen.

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