What it is
Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and resting are the most important things. Babies, older people and people with weak immune systems are more at risk of dehydration.
Washing hands with soap and water, as alcohol gel does not kill it, and staying off work or school until 48 hours after symptoms stop help prevent spread.
Common signs
- Suddenly feeling sick
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- High temperature
- Aching arms and legs
- Headache
How it is usually diagnosed
- Usually based on symptoms
- Stool sample, sometimes, during outbreaks
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Notes on the illness, for example in care homes or hospitals
Questions to ask your doctor
- How can I stop it spreading at home?
- When can I go back to work or school?
- When should I worry about dehydration?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Signs of severe dehydration, blood in the poo or vomit, or a baby or older person who is very drowsy: get urgent medical help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.