Help stop infections this Winter

23 November 2011

Everyone has a part to play in helping to prevent the spread of common winter infections including diarrhoea and vomiting (sometimes known as Norovirus) and

respiratory viruses.

Hand washing with soap and warm water is the most important thing you can do to help reduce the spread of infections.

Good respiratory hygiene measures include using disposable paper tissues when sneezing, coughing and blowing your nose followed by disposing of any tissues and then washing your hands.

These simple measures, plus not visiting a patient in hospital if you are unwell yourself, can make a big difference and will help protect you, your family and those around you.

If you are poorly with diarrhoea and vomiting, then there are a few simple actions you can take to help yourself feel better and protect those around you.

Firstly, remember to drink plenty of fluids as you may become dehydrated when you are ill
Stay away from work or school etc for 48 hours after your last symptoms
Do not go to A&E, Minor Injuries Units or your GP Practice, unless you require urgent medical attention for another condition
If the symptoms of diarrhoea and/or vomiting last longer than four days, then seek telephone advice from NHS Direct (0845 46 47) or by phoning your GP practice