04/02/2026
Some excellent up to date advice from our colleagues in Derbyshire
We’re seeing an increase in cases of norovirus, a common stomach bug that spreads very easily.
Symptoms usually include:
• Sudden vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Sometimes a mild temperature or body aches and pains
If you or your child has norovirus, you can usually treat it at home. You'll usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.
The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration:
• stay at home and get plenty of rest
• drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash – take small sips if you feel sick
• carry on breast or bottle feeding your baby – if they're being sick, try giving small feeds more often than usual
• give babies over 6 months old on formula or solid foods small sips of water between feeds
• eat when you feel able to – it may help to avoid foods that are fatty or spicy
• take paracetamol if you're in discomfort – check the medicine instructions before giving it to your child
Good hygiene is key to reducing the virus spreading:
• wash your hands with soap and water after going to the toilet or changing nappies (alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus)
• wash your hands with soap and water before preparing, serving, or eating food
• wash clothes and bedding that has poo or vomit on it on a 60°C wash and separately from other laundry
• clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps and bathroom door handles
• avoid contact with others as much as possible
If your child has vomiting or diarrhoea, they should stay at home. They can return to school or childcare 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea, this helps protect other children, families, and staff.
Stomach bugs are unpleasant but very common, especially at this time of year. Most children recover quickly with rest and fluids. If you’re worried or symptoms don’t improve or worsen, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.
Thank you for helping keep everyone well 💙
[Image description: A young person in a yellow shirt on a sofa leans over a green bucket, appearing to be feeling sick. Text reads "Norovirus". Derbyshire Family Health Service logo included.]
