The emergence of a new Australian strain of norovirus – the 'winter vomiting bug' – has featured in most newspapers today. The Daily Telegraph reports that the new strain is to blame for the record number of cases of the virus seen this winter, which it terms a 'severe norovirus season'.
Experts have been quick to point out that the new strain of the virus does not cause more serious illness than any other strain. The strain is called Sydney 2012, prompting the Daily Mirror to headline its coverage ‘Down chunder’.
Norovirus is contagious and its spread can be prevented by washing hands (particularly after using the toilet and before preparing food) and disinfecting surfaces. Although norovirus is extremely unpleasant, most people make a full recovery in a few days.
What is the norovirus?
Noroviruses are the most common cause of stomach bugs (gastroenteritis) in the UK. Norovirus can affect people of all ages and is more common i..
