Norovirus is one of the most common stomach bugs in the UK. It causes diarrhoea and vomiting and can be very unpleasant, but it usually clears up by itself in a few days.
You can normally look after yourself or your child at home. Try to avoid going to your GP as norovirus can spread to others very easily. Call your GP or NHS 111 if you’re worried or need some advice.
What to do if you have norovirus
The best thing to do is to stay at home until you’re feeling better. There’s no cure for norovirus, so you have to let it run its course. You don’t usually need to get medical advice unless there’s a risk of a more serious problem.
Babies and young children, especially if they’re less than a year old, have a greater risk of becoming dehydrated.
Norovirus can spread very easily, so you should wash your hands regularly while you’re ill and stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared to reduce the risk of passing it on.