As reported, cases of the dreaded “winter vomiting bug” have been spreading through the UK. NHS data has shown the number of people affected by norovirus has doubled this winter compared to the same time last year.
Although unpleasant, symptoms of this bug typically clear up within two days. But it can cause a more severe illness in vulnerable people.
Therefore, it is important to be wary of any symptoms of norovirus, and prevent the spread where possible. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps.
However, these could also be attributed to other health conditions, which could require medical attention. GP Doctor Asiya Maula, from the Health Suite in Leicester, spoke with Express.co.uk to explain more.
She said: “Whilst it is not exclusive to wintertime, the winter vomiting bug (otherwise known as norovirus) does typically occur more commonly in the colder months.”
She continued: “Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, a fever, stomach cramps, headaches and muscle aches.
“Whilst norovirus is highly contagious and the likelihood of these symptoms being the winter bug is high, it is vital to get these symptoms checked to ensure that it is not a different condition that may need treating immediately.”
Three such conditions that could be initially mistaken for norovirus are gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and hepatitis.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain – all symptoms shared by norovirus.
It is usually transmitted via contaminated food or water, surfaces, or direct contact with someone who is infected.
Dr Maula warned: “If left untreated, gastroenteritis can cause severe dehydration and malnutrition.
“The risk of getting gastroenteritis can be significantly reduced by practising good hygiene standards such as hand washing thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet.
“Safe food preparation can also help avoid gastroenteritis such as washing fruit and vegetables before consumption and keeping raw and cooked foods separate to avoid contamination.
“Avoid consuming undercooked eggs and ensure that meat and seafood are cooked to safe temperatures. “
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis which also share the same symptoms of gastrointestinal distress with diarrhoea and stomach cramps being the most common.
Those who are suffering from ulcerative colitis may experience blood in their bowel movements as well as weight loss and fatigue.
“Unlike gastroenteritis, IBD is not infectious and cannot be passed from one person to another”, Dr Maula said.
“If you have norovirus symptoms and you experience periods of flare-ups and remission, it is possible you could have an IBD as symptoms are shared.
“If you suspect this might be the case, it is advisable to seek medical attention.”
Hepatitis
While relatively uncommon in the UK, viral hepatitis symptoms can also be mistaken for the winter bug.
Hepatitis forms from viruses causing inflammation of the liver which can lead to acute or chronic liver disease.
Characterised by abdominal pain, vomiting and fever, much like the winter bug, viral hepatitis can become a much more serious cause for concern if misunderstood as the winter bug.
The NHS advises going to A&E or calling 999 if you or your child:
- Vomit blood or have vomit that looks like ground coffee
- Have green vomit (adults)
- Have yellow-green or green vomit (children)
- Might have swallowed something poisonous
- Have a stiff neck and pain when looking at bright lights
- Have a sudden, severe headache or stomach ache.
