A number of grim winter bugs are spreading across Scotland and beyond
There are three main symptoms to look out for(Image: Olga Rolenko via Getty Images)
Scots are being warned about the telltale signs of a highly contagious virus. As winter weather firmly takes hold, several unpleasant bugs are making their presence felt.
Countless people are falling ill, with thousands occupying hospital beds due to flu. Common colds and other seasonal ailments are also spreading, with NHS inform urging anyone displaying three key symptoms to remain at home for a minimum of 48 hours. Main symptoms of norovirus, commonly dubbed the ‘winter vomiting bug’, include vomiting, nausea (feeling sick), and diarrhoea.
Those affected by the illness might also suffer from headaches, body aches, stomach pain, and elevated temperature. NHS inform recommends people “stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the norovirus symptoms have stopped”.
Individuals should also steer clear of hospital visits, maintain regular hand washing with soap and water – particularly following toilet use and before food preparation, and remember that alcohol-based hand sanitiser cannot eliminate the virus. Norovirus transmits extremely easily in communal spaces including hospitals, care homes and schools.
Infection can occur through direct contact with an infected person, handling contaminated surfaces, or consuming tainted food. Medical professionals explain that norovirus can persist on surfaces for days or even weeks, which largely explains the virus’s rapid transmission rate.
Because of this, thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces is crucial. You can contract norovirus multiple times as the virus continually evolves, preventing your body from developing long-term immunity to it.
