Protect Yourself from Norovirus This Christmas: Simple Steps to Stay Safe

With Christmas celebrations in full swing, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) is urging people across Cornwall to take precautions against the highly contagious norovirus. Often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, norovirus poses a heightened risk during festive group gatherings.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus causes diarrhoea and vomiting and spreads easily in group settings. Most people recover within a few days, but it can be much more serious for vulnerable individuals, such as hospital patients or those with underlying health conditions.

Louise Dickinson, Joint Director of Infection Prevention and Control for RCHT and Cornwall Foundation NHS Trust, explained:

“Norovirus likes nothing more than group gatherings, and Christmas and New Year is when we often see sharp rises. But by taking some simple steps, you can help stop the spread of the virus—make sure you wash your hands thoroughly, and if you have symptoms, avoid direct contact with people.

“We have cases of norovirus in our hospitals, and this has a significant impact on patient flow and our ability to admit new patients needing our care. If you have symptoms of diarrhoea or sickness, please delay visiting our hospitals until you have been symptom-free for at least two days to help protect our most vulnerable patients.”

How to Protect Yourself and Others

To help reduce the spread of norovirus this winter, the NHS recommends taking these precautions:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before preparing food. Avoid relying on alcohol hand gels, as they do not kill the virus.
• Stay at home if you’re unwell. Avoid attending parties, gatherings, or visiting hospitals if you have had symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting in the last 48 hours. This also applies if you’ve been in close contact with someone showing symptoms.
• Limit contact with family members if you are symptomatic. Use separate toilet facilities if possible, and ensure shared facilities are cleaned thoroughly after use.

Visit the NHS Website for More Information

For additional details about norovirus, its symptoms, and tips on managing the illness, visit the NHS website.

This Christmas, taking these simple steps can make a big difference in protecting yourself and others from the spread of norovirus. Stay safe and enjoy the festive season!