Reported norovirus cases double the usual number - and Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge witnesses flu cases rising
The number of reported cases of norovirus is double the usual amount for this time of year and flu cases are rising, the NHS in Cambridgeshire has warned, as it offered advice to families ahead of half-term.
National figures show there were 1,646 positive norovirus laboratory reports between weeks 27 and 38 of this year, compared to a five-season average of 691 for the same period, according to national figures.
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is very unpleasant but usually clears up within a few days. It can spread easily in hospitals, schools and nursing homes and is typically caught by close contact with someone infected with it, or through contaminated surfaces or food.
Washing hands well with soap and water, disinfecting potentially contaminated surfaces and using a hot wash of 60C for contaminated clothing and bedding are among the tips to prevent it spreading.
There are thought to be multiple reasons for the rise, including that the Covid-19 pandemic affected the number of norovirus cases and numbers have since been more variable.
So far, norovirus has not been the biggest challenge for our hospitals, however.
A spokesperson for Cambridge University Hospitals, which runs Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie Hospitals, told the Cambridge Independent: “Although there is increased norovirus in the community, it is not a particular problem in the hospital at this stage. However, we have seen a significant increase in patients with respiratory symptoms and confirmed cases of flu.
“The public can help us at this time by not coming into hospital if they have symptoms of norovirus or flu and by taking care not to spread it in the community. Preventative steps include washing hands frequently with soap and water, covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing, and binning used tissues as quickly as possible.
“The flu vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from it. To learn more about who should have the vaccine, visit these NHS pages. Useful advice on treating norovirus can be found here.”
Meanwhile, with half-term next week, the NHS in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has urged families to ensure their medicine cabinet and first aid kit is stocked with bandages, plasters, sterile dressings, medical tape and tweezers.
Carol Anderson, chief nursing officer at NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: “By taking simple steps like keeping your medicine cabinet and first aid kit well-stocked, you’ll be able to treat minor illnesses and injuries from the comfort of your own home. If you do need help with a medical issue, consider using your nearest community pharmacy or NHS 111 for advice.
“Also, if you’re planning to go away this half term, be sure to order and collect any repeat prescriptions in advance, to avoid running out. This can be easily done through the NHS app or NHS online, with many GP practices offering the option to order via their website.”
The NHS says most winter illnesses will be mild and can be self-treated at home with rest, over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen, or with help and advice from a pharmacist.
The Pharmacy First initiative launched earlier this year to help patients get treatment for seven common conditions without needing a GP prescription. These conditions include earache, urinary tract infections and sinusitis. There have been almost 44,000 Pharmacy First consultations in the county so far.
For urgent advice for a medical concern that is not a life-threatening or limb-threatening emergency, people can use 111 online or call 111 24/7, free of charge, anywhere in England.
More help on local services and staying well this autumn can be found at https://www.cpics.org.uk/well-together, while NHS.uk or the NHS app provides the latest advice on treating common illnesses.