Cases of norovirus are on the rise in Scotland with health experts warning of the importance of hand hygiene.
Figures published by Public Health Scotland (PHS) on Thursday showed laboratory reports of the virus in Scotland have increased in recent weeks.
PHS received 1,629 laboratory reports for norovirus up to the week ending November 17, 2024, compared to 1,563 in the previous week.
Norovirus is a common illness that can cause diarrhoea and vomiting.
Experts say it can be very unpleasant, but most people make a full recovery within a couple of days.
PHS said people should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water to protect themselves from winter bugs.
A PHS notice reads: “You can get norovirus more than once because the virus is always changing.
“This winter we have seen a new strain of norovirus become dominant in Scotland, as well as elsewhere in the UK.
“This may mean that we see a higher peak than usual. As a result, it’s important to be aware of how to prevent getting norovirus.
“The most effective way of helping to protect yourself from winter bugs, including norovirus, is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
“Handwashing with soap and water is best, as alcohol hand gels are not effective against norovirus.
“By keeping hands clean and encouraging children to practise good hand hygiene as well, we can significantly reduce the transmission of infections.
“It is also important to minimise contact with others if you have norovirus.
“If you or your child have diarrhoea and vomiting, stay away from work, school or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, and don’t prepare food for others in that time either.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
