Surge in norovirus cases in recent months

Almost 400 cases of norovirus were recorded in the first 10 weeks of 2023, which is nearly four times the amount recorded during the same period in 2022, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) has said.

According to its latest figures, 394 cases of the virus, which is also known as the winter vomiting bug, were recorded in the first 10 weeks of this year compared to just 109 during the same period last year.

Some 50% of cases this year have occurred in people aged 65 and older, while 28% have occurred in children under the age of five.

“Norovirus infection is usually mild and lasts only a day or two. However, young children and elderly people can become very sick. People who get sick with norovirus can still spread the infection after their symptoms have gone and there is no treatment for norovirus infection,” explained HPSC consultant in public health medicine, Dr Paul McKeown.

He pointed out that as a result of pandemic restrictions, there has been “very little” norovirus reported in the last few years.

“However, over the last number of months, cases are beginning to rise again. In the US and the UK, they have seen quite high levels of norovirus that are continuing to rise. It is possible that levels of norovirus in Ireland will continue to rise further,” he warned.

He noted that norovirus is very easily spread between people, but it also lasts for a long time on surfaces. As a result, if you touch a surface contaminated with norovirus and then touch your mouth, this can make you sick.

He reminded people that cleaning your hands with soap and water is the best protection against the virus. Alcohol hand gels do not work against it.

“People who are ill with norovirus should stay at home and not go to work or school and they should not visit nursing homes or hospitals until 48 hours after their symptoms have gone,” he Dr McKeown said.

He also urged people who develop forceful vomiting not to visit their GP without phoning ahead first.

The HPSC offers the following tips to prevent the spread of norovirus:

-Frequent hand washing with soap and water

-Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using a bleach-based household cleaner

-Immediately remove and wash clothing that may be contaminated with the virus after an episode of illness. Use hot water and soap

-Flush or discard any vomit and/or faeces in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.

Meanwhile, new guidance on managing norovirus in residential care settings has been published by the HPSC. It can be viewed here.