'Stay Home' Advice On Norovirus

Stay home, stay hydrated and stay isolated - that is the message from doctors in Fife ahead of the 'Norovirus season'.

Also known as the winter vomiting bug, it generally causes 48 hours of sickness and is highly contagious.

Symptons include a nauseous feeling, followed by a rapid onset of vomiting and diarrhea.

Keith Morris is a Consultant microbiologist with NHS Fife, he has this advice for anyone who catches the bug:

Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said:

"Norovirus, or the winter vomiting bug, is a common virus affecting all age groups - particularly the frail, the elderly and the young. Although it is highly infectious and unpleasant, most people make a full recovery within two to three days with no complications.

"Rates of norovirus fluctuate from year to year with occasional spikes so we cannot estimate how severe this winter season will be. However we remain vigilant and ready to cope with whatever the winter has in store."

If you do catch the winter vomiting bug the advice is:

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-milky liquid to replace lost fluids
• Take oral rehydration solution to replace lost salts and fluids
• Make sure your hands are clean to prevent the illness spreading
• Don't prepare food for other people especially babies or older people