Press Association
Wednesday 23rd May 2012
Basic precautions to prevent the spread of the winter vomiting bug norovirus are being urged by the Scottish Government.
Scotland's chief medical officer and chief nursing officer said people affected by the bug should follow simple tips to stop it spreading.
They include staying hydrated, keeping hands clean and not preparing food for other people.
Chief medical officer Sir Harry Burns said: "Norovirus, or the winter vomiting bug, spreads quickly where people are living or working in close proximity - such as schools, hospitals, care homes, offices and hotels.
"The virus is highly contagious and unpleasant, but fortunately most people make a full recovery with no complications.
"Rates of norovirus fluctuate from year to year with occasional spikes so we cannot estimate how severe this winter season will be. However, we remain vigilant and ready to cope with whatever the winter has in store."
In November, an outbreak of norovirus affected patients in seven wards at Monklands Hospital in Airdrie.
The winter vomiting virus causes sickness and diarrhoea and usually lasts for 24-48 hours, but it is infectious for two days after the symptoms stop.
Chief nursing officer Ros Moore said: "The symptoms of norovirus usually clear up in a couple of days and are generally not serious. However diarrhoea can be serious in babies and the elderly because of the risk of dehydration. If diarrhoea is persistent or there are other symptoms, such as bleeding, you should go to see your GP.
"The Scottish Government and health boards monitor norovirus outbreaks closely throughout the year, taking every step to minimise its impact on people who use and work in our hospitals."
Basic precautions to prevent the spread of the winter vomiting bug norovirus are being urged by the Scottish Government.
Scotland's chief medical officer and chief nursing officer said people affected by the bug should follow simple tips to stop it spreading.
They include staying hydrated, keeping hands clean and not preparing food for other people.
Chief medical officer Sir Harry Burns said: "Norovirus, or the winter vomiting bug, spreads quickly where people are living or working in close proximity - such as schools, hospitals, care homes, offices and hotels.
"The virus is highly contagious and unpleasant, but fortunately most people make a full recovery with no complications.
"Rates of norovirus fluctuate from year to year with occasional spikes so we cannot estimate how severe this winter season will be. However, we remain vigilant and ready to cope with whatever the winter has in store."
In November, an outbreak of norovirus affected patients in seven wards at Monklands Hospital in Airdrie.
The winter vomiting virus causes sickness and diarrhoea and usually lasts for 24-48 hours, but it is infectious for two days after the symptoms stop.
Chief nursing officer Ros Moore said: "The symptoms of norovirus usually clear up in a couple of days and are generally not serious. However diarrhoea can be serious in babies and the elderly because of the risk of dehydration. If diarrhoea is persistent or there are other symptoms, such as bleeding, you should go to see your GP.
"The Scottish Government and health boards monitor norovirus outbreaks closely throughout the year, taking every step to minimise its impact on people who use and work in our hospitals."
