A new video released by Hertfordshire and West Essex STP
This informative video, which also warns of the risk that it poses to hospitals and care homes, will be shown across many GP waiting room screens across the area in February. It is also available to view on YouTube and through the Hertfordshire and West Essex STP website.
In the short video, healthcare professionals from Hertfordshire and West Essex urge people with any symptoms of the highly contagious diarrhoea and sickness bug to stay at home and wait 48 hours until symptoms have passed before visiting any hospital, care home or GP practice.
As the Norovirus is a self-limiting disease, it does not require specific medicine. There is no need to go to your GP as they won’t be able offer any medication and antibiotics will not work. It is strongly recommend individuals exhibiting the following symptoms should stay at home and stay hydrated.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- High temperature
- Aching arms and legs
Other tips if you are suffering from norovirus:
- Stay at home and drink plenty of water
- Rehydration treatment can be helpful
- Avoid fruit juice or fizzy drinks
- Take paracetamol if you have a temperature
- Wash your hands with soap and water (hand gels are not effective)
- Make sure you clean and wipe surfaces well
- Norovirus will get better without treatment; antibiotics are not necessary
If you are concerned:
- Call GP or 111 if you are worried or if your symptoms last more than 2 days
- Get early advice for babies or older/vulnerable adults
Hospitals and care homes have already been affected by cases of norovirus this winter and clinicians are keen to limit any further impact.
So please share the video; not the virus!