Increase in sickness bug on Island

There's been an increase in cases of the vomiting and diarrhoea bug in the community over the past few weeks.

It is consistent with the condition Norovirus and is highly contagious, however there are effective ways that the risk of spread can be greatly reduced.

The most effective ways include hand washing with soap and water and ensuring all surfaces in toilets and bathrooms are well cleansed with the right detergents.

In most cases the illness is severe for 12-24 hours, but short lived. 

People are urged not to attend healthcare premises whilst showing symptoms, as people with existing illness can be severely affected.

Even after the symptoms have stopped you're asked to isolate and refrain from visiting patients in hospital for at least 48 hours.