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02/01/2013
Norovirus Case Stand At Over 1.1 Million
The number of cases of norovirus, the winter vomiting bug, have now exceeded 1.1 millon across England and Wales.
The Health Protection Agency said there were 3,877 lab-confirmed cases up to 30 December - but for each confirmed case there are another 288 infections that go unreported.
The current figure is 72% higher than at the same point last year.
Reported infections dipped over the festive break, but further cases are expected in the next few weeks.
Norovirus can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, by contact with an infected person, or by the consumption of contaminated food or water.
John Harris, from the Health Protection Agency, said: "As we have seen in previous years there has been a dip in the number of confirmed laboratory reports owing to the Christmas and New Year period.
"However, in line with other norovirus seasons we will expect to see an increase in the number of laboratory reports in the next few weeks.
"If you think you may have the illness then it is important to maintain good hand hygiene to help prevent it spreading.
"We also advise that people stay away from hospitals, schools and care homes as these environments are particularly prone to outbreaks."
(H/GK)
The Health Protection Agency said there were 3,877 lab-confirmed cases up to 30 December - but for each confirmed case there are another 288 infections that go unreported.
The current figure is 72% higher than at the same point last year.
Reported infections dipped over the festive break, but further cases are expected in the next few weeks.
Norovirus can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, by contact with an infected person, or by the consumption of contaminated food or water.
John Harris, from the Health Protection Agency, said: "As we have seen in previous years there has been a dip in the number of confirmed laboratory reports owing to the Christmas and New Year period.
"However, in line with other norovirus seasons we will expect to see an increase in the number of laboratory reports in the next few weeks.
"If you think you may have the illness then it is important to maintain good hand hygiene to help prevent it spreading.
"We also advise that people stay away from hospitals, schools and care homes as these environments are particularly prone to outbreaks."
(H/GK)
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