The norovirus, commonly known as the vomiting bug, is currently making its way across the UK, prompting ITV’s Dr Amir Khan to offer vital health advice to assist individuals in warding off the dreaded norovirus amidst a notable increase in incidences.
Best-selling author and committed GP, Dr Khan has mentioned on an epiosde of Lorraine that it’s a “quadruple-demic” due the concurrent spread of four specific viruses: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), flu, Covid-19, and norovirus. Despite their similarities, norovirus and food poisoning are often mistaken for one another due to shared symptoms which include diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting.
Given the similarity of these illnesses, especially as we move into the peak months of their prevalence, it’s critical to differentiate between the two to properly manage their symptoms. Niamh McMillan, Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug advises: “Norovirus and food poisoning are easy to confuse as the symptoms are almost identical”.
Symptoms of norovirus include:
- severe nausea
- diarrhoea
- stomach cramps
- vomiting
“Norovirus is the most common type of virus which causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Norovirus is also referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ due to its prevalence during the colder months, however it can be caught at any time of the year. But when it comes to food poisoning, this illness is caused by eating food that has been contaminated by harmful bacteria, parasites or viruses which then irritates and infects your digestive system,” explains Niamh.
There are a few key differences between the two which can help you identify whether you’re suffering from norovirus or food poisoning though. The expert explains that the “first signs of norovirus will appear between 12 hours to 8 days. Ongoing diarrhoea and vomiting are the most common signs, however you may also experience headaches and lightheadedness”.
When it comes to food poisoning, the effects are much quicker and often appear within a two to six-hour time-frame of eating the contaminated food. Common symptoms of food poisoning include fever, loss of appetite, aches and chills.
In addition to washing your hands thoroughly and ensuring your food is stored and cooked correctly, norovirus can be transmitted by coming into contact with someone suffering from the virus, contaminated surfaces, food and water. A person suffering from norovirus is most contagious from the moment they start feeling to at least three days after recovery. However, it’s less commonly known that food poisoning can also be considered contagious, especially if it’s caused by certain bacteria, viruses or parasites. If food poisoning is caused by toxins in the food, then it isn’t considered contagious, the expert says. The NHS warns that “alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.”
You should however seek further medical advice if norovirus or food poisoning symptoms worsen, including blood within diarrhoea, high temperature and if you can’t keep fluids down, the expert warns.
