Do not attend A&E with norovirus, says NHS

People living in Northamptonshire are asked to stay away from healthcare settings if they have the winter vomiting bug

Health leaders across a county have urged people to stay at home if they have been affected by the highly infectious winter bug norovirus.

The University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) and public health leaders have told people to avoid hospitals and other healthcare settings following a rise in cases across England.

Health officials said they expected to see a surge in infections in Northamptonshire in the coming weeks.

Hemant Nemade, UHN's medical director, said the virus could put others at risk.

'Very infectious'

Mr Nemade added: "It can create problems in hospitals if [norovirus] is brought into an environment where patients are already unwell through other medical conditions.

"Because the virus is very infectious, it means we need to take additional precautions such as enhanced cleaning and reduced movement on affected wards, which can lead to restrictions in visiting."

Cases of the stomach bug have been rising in England, but the UK Health Security Agency said that the increase has "begun early" this year.

Symptoms include suddenly feeling sick, projectile vomiting, watery diarrhoea, headaches and stomach cramps.

People who have, or have had the virus, were advised to stay at home for 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

Sally Burns, the director of public health on West Northamptonshire Council, added: "It's really important that you keep away from hospital and other healthcare settings, such as GP practices, as most people can manage their symptoms at home without any medical intervention."