Displaying items by tag: symptoms

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a strong public warning about norovirus, urging anyone affected to remain at home for 48 hours after symptoms cease, as individuals can still be infectious. Known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, norovirus causes vomiting, diarrhoea, and severe discomfort. While typically seasonal, England has seen an alarming spike in cases, with 14,959 reported between 31 March and 27 April - more than double the five-year average. Hospital outbreaks are also up 43.3% above historical norms. Though recent weeks show a slight decline, infection levels remain significantly high. Norovirus spreads easily via contaminated food, surfaces, or close contact, and can be transmitted even before symptoms begin. The UKHSA stresses the importance of staying home, avoiding hospitals or GP visits while symptomatic, and refraining from cooking for others until 48 hours after recovery. Parents are advised not to send children to school during this period, and all should practice vigilant hygiene to prevent spread.

Thousands of people could be risking their lives by delaying seeking medical help. Tummy pain or a cough that does not go away could be caused by cancer, so these symptoms should be checked out. Cancers detected early can often be treated quickly and easily. But three in five people don't want to bother the NHS, while others are not aware of the common symptoms. NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard said cancer services were now ‘running at full speed with new, innovative ways of working in place’. NHS TV advertisements are warning people not to ignore signs. Over the past year 10% fewer people have started cancer treatment; they are being encouraged to come forward now. Abdominal, throat, stomach, bowel, pancreatic, ovarian, prostate, kidney and bladder cancers account for 44% of all diagnoses, and two in five deaths from cancer in England.