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Key facts about norovirus

Norovirus is a virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

It is often known as the “winter vomiting” bug and affects people of all ages.

It is highly contagious and, although unpleasant, the illness caused by norovirus is generally mild and people usually recover fully in 2 to 3 days.

However, outbreaks can be problematic in hospitals, and it is important that NHS organisations have systems in place to deal effectively with norovirus.

More about norovirus from NHS Choices

Published 30 January 2012