People are being reminded to follow simple hygiene measures to help stop the spread of the winter vomiting bug Norovirus.
It has been estimated that since October, around 500,000 people have been become ill nationally with the bug, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent says that by washing hands using soap and water at least five times a day people can help protect themselves from the highly contagious virus.
Andy Scott-Clark, Deputy Director of Public Health for NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent said: “The most common way infections, such as diarrhoea, sickness, tummy bugs, colds and flu, is spread is on people’s hands.
“People should always clean their hands before and after eating or handling food and after using the toilet and touching animals.”
Good hygiene measures should also be taught to children. Mr Scott-Clark added: “Encouraging youngsters to regularly wash their hands will ensure this becomes a lifelong habit.”
People who are caring for a friend or relative with a long term condition or illness and who are more susceptible to infections can also reduce the risk of passing on germs by cleaning their hands thoroughly. It is particularly important if you are visiting a relative or friend in hospital to clean hands thoroughly both before and after visiting the ward.
Other ways to help stop the spread of infection include covering the nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when sneezing, coughing, wiping and blowing noses. The disposable tissue should only be used once and thrown away in a waste bin. Hands should be washed as soon as possible afterwards.
21 January
