THE Health Protection Agency is warning the winter vomiting disease norovirus, is already spreading across south east London.
It says it has already received reports of outbreaks even before winter sets in.
The virus, whose symptoms last only a a couple of days, is easily passed from person to person and people are being urged to make sure they wash their hands thoroughly before eating and after using to toilet.
Symptoms include diarhoea and vomiting.
Dr Rachel Heathcock from the agency’s south east London unit said: “We are urging the public to help limit the spread of norovirus before the season gets into full swing.”
She said outbreaks were already being seen in schools, care homes and hospitals.
There is no specific treatment for the virus, but people should stay at home until they have been clear of the symptoms for 48 hours.
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