Stay away from GP if you have virus

ANYONE suffering from the winter vomiting virus is urged not to visit their GP or accident and emergency in a bid to stop the spread of infection.

The Health Protection Agency North-West is also urging people with the norovirus bug not to visit friends or relatives in hospitals or residential care homes and to stay away from work or school until they have recovered and been symptom-free for 48 hours.

Dr Vinay Bothra, from the HPA’s Greater Manchester Health Protection Unit, said: “Norovirus is the most common cause of gastro-intestinal infection in the UK with up to one million cases recorded every year. It is particularly prevalent in the winter months.

“Norovirus infection is an unpleasant but short-lived illness from which the majority of people, even the frail elderly, will recover quite naturally in 12 to 60 hours without any treatment other than rest and the replacement of lost fluids.

However, it is a highly infectious illness that spreads rapidly when introduced to closed environments such as hospitals, care homes, schools and work places.

“That is why we are strongly advising people with the winter vomiting virus not to visit GP surgeries or hospital accidentand emergency units.

“People with symptoms should stay at home, ensure that their personal hygiene is good and avoid contact with others.

“However, if symptoms persist the patient should ring NHS Direct on 0845-4647 or have telephone consultation with their GP.”



Infection advice

The agency’s advice for preventing the spread of norovirus infection is:

::Wash hands thoroughly and regularly at all times, but particularly after toilet visits and before eating.

::Do not handle or prepare food for other people until you have been symptom free for a minimum period of 48 hours.

::Stay away from work or school until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.

::Do not visit friends or relatives in hospitals or residential care homes as there is a real risk that you would introduce the infection to the establishment.

::Do not visit your GP surgery or local A&E Unit. Norovirus infection is a self-limiting illness and you will recover naturally without treatment.

::It is important to take plenty of drinks to replace lost fluids. If symptoms persist, phone NHS Direct or your family doctor for advice.