Warning as Norovirus outbreak hits Jersey

Tuesday 15 September 2015

Jersey's Health department has issued a warning for people to be aware of the vomiting and Diarrhoea bug, Norovirus.

Doctors are currently seeing evidence of the contagious infection which includes symptoms of: diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, malaise and vomiting. It typically resolves itself without treatment within 48 to 72 hours but is easily spread.

Dr Ivan Muscatt, Jersey Hospital's Microbiologist said the symptoms are rarely serious, "However the effects may sometimes be more severe, particularly in the very young, the very old and those with underlying medical conditions."

Dr Muscat stressed that because the infection is contagious and rarely serious, islanders should not go directly to hospital but seek advice from their GP if they are concerned. "Individuals who are concerned about their symptoms, whether because of dehydration (thirst, light-headedness, headache, tiredness, dry mouth, dark urine, small amounts of urine) or a belief that their symptoms may reflect another condition, or if they have been unwell for more than the 48-72 hours should, in the first instance, contact their GP for advice.

"Individuals with symptoms of norovirus type infection should avoid visiting the Hospital and other institutions, particularly food outlets, until their symptoms cease." he said. "They should not prepare food for others, and workers in catering and health establishments should not return to work for 48 hours from the time that they last experienced symptoms."

Resting at home and ensuring you have adequate fluids with possibly the use of paracetamol if required, are the recommended treatments. Anyone who suspects they have been infected should also ensure they don't pass the infection on by thoroughly washing hands and increased hygiene measures in toilet areas and food preparation areas, preferably with a chlorine-based cleaning agent. Alcohol gels are not reliably effective against norovirus infections on hands.