Brits warned to protect from sickness bug sweeping UK as 'you can't build up immunity'

Infectious disease expert Dr Helen Chu from UW Medicine has sounded the alarm as norovirus grips the nation, with the winter season fuelling its rampant spread. She highlighted some crucial tips on how to stay clear of the dreaded vomiting bug, even when your nearest and dearest are laid low by the illness.

Key symptoms to watch for include vomiting and diarrhoea, which are notorious for being the primary ways norovirus makes its rounds. Dr Chu revealed: "When a sick person vomits, they release a couple hundred million particles of the virus, but it takes only 100 particles to get you sick."

Penning her thoughts for UW Medicine’s publication, Dr Chu cautioned that building immunity to this relentless bug is a tough battle due to the multitude of strains out there. Yet, she pointed out that a few fortunate souls might carry a genetic mutation that acts as a shield against the virus, though no vaccine is available at present.

The secret to conquering norovirus isn't in finding a cure, but in dodging it altogether, and that doesn't mean leaving your sick family to fend for themselves. Dr Chu has shared her blueprint for nursing those struck down by norovirus without falling victim yourself.

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Her advice kicks off with the basics: "Keep them hydrated, make sure they rest and keep them near a bathroom." It's paramount to limit direct contact when caring for someone unwell, advises a top doctor. Avoid hugs and kisses or sleeping in the same bed as them.

While it might seem counterintuitive, refrain from handing out any meds to cease diarrhoea, as they likely won't be effective. However, painkillers could bring relief from or muscle pains if the patient can retain them. As Dr Chu highlights, extra precautions are necessary because "It survives on surfaces and at extreme temperatures for much longer than other viruses."

To sanitize affected zones like sinks and toilets properly, clad yourself in disposable gloves, sweep away any lingering vomit or diarrhoea, douse in bleach, let it set for five minutes minimum then rinse off. Post-cleaning, toss any used cleaning materials - opting for paper towels over fabric is wise. Furthermore, the urges laundry of any soiled couture or bedclothes should take place separately in a high-temperature cycle.

Hand sanitiser won't cut it against norovirus, so it's best to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after contact with a sick person or potentially contaminated surfaces. While norovirus symptoms may only last for a few days, you could still be spreading the virus up to two weeks after you've fully recovered - typically defined as going two full days without any symptoms.