The mass outbreak of a highly-contagious vomiting bug has
forced the closure of hospital wards and schools across the
In its early stages, the annual dose of norovirus, or "winter
vomiting bug" as it is commonly known, has already struck
down some 750,000 people according to figures released by
Britain's Health Protection Agency.
Norovirus sufferers typically experience fever, nausea,
diarrhoea and vomiting lasting from one to five days.
"People should be vigilant in their hygiene and we would like
to remind anyone who has typical symptoms suggestive of
norovirus infection to avoid visiting friends or relatives in
hospital or care homes," agency spokesman John Harris told
British newspaper The Daily Telegraph.
In the first two weeks of December, 43 hospital wards across
Britain have been closed to new patients following outbreaks
of the rapid-spreading illness, while schools are reporting
record numbers of students away "sick".