Home Care for Norovirus: A Practical Guide to Managing Symptoms Safely

Home care tips for norovirus: learn how to stay hydrated, manage symptoms, prevent spread, and recover safely from sickness and diarrhoea at home.

Norovirus is one of the most common causes of sickness and diarrhoea in the UK, particularly during the colder months. 

Often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” it spreads quickly and can leave sufferers feeling extremely unwell for several days.

While it’s usually self-limiting, knowing how to manage symptoms safely at home is essential, for both recovery and preventing it from spreading to others.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes sudden onset vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever or body aches. Symptoms typically appear 12–48 hours after exposure and can last for 1–3 days, though fatigue may linger longer.

Because it spreads through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and food, careful hygiene at home is critical.

Staying Hydrated is Your Top Priority

One of the biggest risks with norovirus is dehydration, especially in children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.

Tips for staying hydrated:

Take small, frequent sips of water rather than large amounts at once

Use oral rehydration solutions (available from pharmacies and health shops) 

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration

Ice chips or diluted squash can be easier to tolerate if nausea is severe

If someone cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours, medical advice should be sought.

Rest and Recovery

Your body needs time and energy to fight the virus.

Stay at home and avoid work, school, or social activities

Aim for plenty of sleep and rest

Avoid rushing back to normal activities, even after symptoms ease

In the UK, guidance generally recommends staying off work or school until 48 hours after symptoms stop to reduce transmission.

Eating During Illness

Loss of appetite is common, and that’s okay in the short term.

When you feel ready to eat:

Start with bland foods such as toast, rice, crackers, or bananas

Avoid fatty, spicy, or dairy-heavy foods initially

Eat small portions and build up gradually

Don’t force food, hydration is far more important in the early stages.

Preventing the Spread at Home

Norovirus spreads incredibly easily, so protecting others in your household is vital.

Key hygiene steps:

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water (hand sanitiser alone is less effective)

Clean surfaces regularly, especially in bathrooms and kitchens

Use separate towels, flannels, and, if possible, a separate toilet

Wash contaminated clothing and bedding at high temperatures

Bleach-based cleaners are particularly effective at killing the virus.

Managing Symptoms Safely

There’s no specific cure for norovirus, but you can manage symptoms:

Paracetamol can help with fever and aches

Avoid anti-diarrhoeal medication unless advised by a pharmacist or GP

Keep a bowl or bucket nearby if vomiting is frequent

Maintain ventilation in the room to improve comfort

Always check medication suitability, especially for children or those with existing conditions.

When to Seek Medical Help

Most cases can be managed at home, but you should seek medical advice if:

Signs of dehydration appear (dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urination)

Symptoms last longer than a few days

There is blood in vomit or stool

The person is elderly, very young, pregnant, or immunocompromised

In urgent situations, contact NHS 111 or seek emergency care, call 999 if necessary. 

Norovirus can be unpleasant and exhausting, but with the right home care approach—focusing on hydration, rest, and hygiene, most people make a full recovery within a few days.

Taking simple precautions not only supports recovery but also helps protect your family, workplace, and community from further spread.

Young Woman’s Third Fight: Raising Awareness of a Rare and Life-Threatening Illness

At That’s Health, we often share stories that highlight both the realities of serious illness and the extraordinary resilience of individuals facing them. 

Today’s story is one of courage, survival, and an urgent call for support.

A Childhood Marked by Courage

Trinity Peterson-Mayes is only 24 years old, yet her life has already been shaped by battles most people will never experience.

At just two months old, she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. Against all odds, she fought through treatment and survived.

Years later, at the age of 11, Trinity faced another devastating diagnosis, osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. 

Once again, she demonstrated incredible strength and resilience, overcoming the disease for a second time.

For her family, it felt as though the hardest chapters were finally behind them.

A Sudden and Terrifying Turn

Recently, however, Trinity’s life changed in a matter of days.

What began as difficulty swallowing and speaking quickly escalated into something far more serious. While in hospital, her condition deteriorated rapidly. She became unable to swallow even her own saliva, and her facial muscles weakened significantly.

Doctors were forced to place Trinity on a ventilator to protect her airway, a frightening and critical step.

After urgent consultations with specialists, Trinity was diagnosed with botulism, a rare but life-threatening neurological illness.

Understanding Botulism

Botulism is caused by a toxin that interferes with the body’s nerve signals, effectively blocking communication between nerves and muscles. This can lead to paralysis, affecting vital functions such as breathing, swallowing, and movement.

What makes Trinity’s case even more extraordinary is just how rare this condition is. Her medical team revealed that none of the neurologists treating her had ever encountered a case in person,  only studied it in textbooks.

The necessary antitoxin had to be sourced urgently and transported from another location to halt the progression of the illness.

The Road to Recovery

Thankfully, Trinity received the life-saving antitoxin in time.

However, this is only the beginning of her recovery journey.

Because botulism disrupts nerve function, the body must slowly rebuild those connections before muscle strength can return. This process is neither quick nor easy.

Recovery can take weeks or even months, often requiring intensive rehabilitation, including:

Physiotherapy

Speech and swallowing therapy

Ongoing medical monitoring

Despite everything, Trinity continues to fight with remarkable determination, just as she did as a child. Each day, she is working to regain abilities many of us take for granted, such as speaking, swallowing, and moving independently.

How You Can Help

As Trinity focuses on healing, she is unable to work, and the financial strain on her and her family is growing.

Support is being sought to help cover:

Medical bills and hospital care

Rent and essential living costs

Rehabilitation and therapy

Ongoing treatments

If you are in a position to help, any contribution can make a meaningful difference.

And if donating isn’t possible, simply sharing Trinity’s story can help raise awareness and extend support further.

A Story of Strength... and Hope

After surviving cancer twice as a child, Trinity is now facing yet another unimaginable challenge. Her story is a powerful reminder of both the fragility of health and the incredible strength of the human spirit.

With the right support, care, and time, there is hope that Trinity can once again overcome the odds.

From all of us at That’s Health, we send our best wishes, strength, and encouragement to Trinity and her family during this incredibly difficult time. 

We have made a donation and we are now inviting our readers to do the same:-

Here is Trinity's GoFundMe page link:-https://www.gofundme.com/f/24yo-survived-cancer-twice-now-she-needs-our-help-again

Wonder Legs Tablets: Do They Really Work?

I write this blogpost not as an advocate, paid or otherwise, but as someone who takes Wonder Legs tablets as a consumer.

In recent years, supplements aimed at improving circulation and relieving “heavy legs” have become increasingly popular.

One such product is Wonder Legs, a tablet sold in the UK and Europe and marketed as a natural solution for tired, swollen, or uncomfortable legs. But how effective are these tablets, and what does the evidence actually suggest?

What Are Wonder Legs Tablets?

Wonder Legs tablets are a dietary supplement designed to support healthy circulation and vein function in the legs. They are commonly taken by people who experience symptoms such as:

Tired or heavy legs

Mild swelling after standing or sitting for long periods

Aching or discomfort in the lower limbs

The tablets contain a combination of herbal extracts and nutrients, including:

French maritime pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster)

Red vine leaf extract (Vitis vinifera)

Vitamin C

Black pepper extract

These ingredients are intended to support blood vessel health and circulation, which may help reduce feelings of fatigue or heaviness in the legs.

How the Ingredients Are Supposed to Work

The concept behind Wonder Legs tablets is rooted in improving microcirculation and vein strength.

Red vine leaf extract has been traditionally used in Europe to help relieve symptoms of poor circulation, including heavy or aching legs. It contains plant compounds that may help strengthen blood vessel walls and reduce inflammation.

French maritime pine bark extract is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. These compounds are believed to help maintain healthy blood vessels and improve circulation.

Vitamin C contributes to the formation of collagen, which plays a key role in maintaining strong blood vessels.

Together, these ingredients are intended to support normal venous function and reduce sensations of tired or heavy legs, particularly after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Does the Evidence Say?

While the ingredients used in Wonder Legs have some scientific background, it is important to understand dietary supplements are not medicines and are not required to demonstrate the same level of clinical effectiveness as pharmaceutical treatments.

Some studies suggest that compounds such as red vine leaf extract and pine bark extract may help relieve symptoms of mild chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where blood flow in the leg veins is impaired. However, research results are mixed and generally modest.

This means that while some people may experience relief from symptoms such as heaviness or mild swelling, the tablets do not treat underlying vein disease and should not replace medical advice.

Who Might Benefit?

Wonder Legs tablets may be useful for people who:

Spend long hours standing or sitting at work

Experience occasional heavy or tired legs

Are looking for a supplement to support circulation

They are commonly marketed to older adults, travellers, and workers who remain on their feet all day.

However, anyone experiencing persistent swelling, pain, or visible vein problems should seek advice from a GP, as these symptoms may indicate varicose veins or circulatory disorders.

The Bottom Line

Wonder Legs tablets contain ingredients that may support circulation and blood vessel health, and some users report improvements in the feeling of tired or heavy legs. However, the scientific evidence is limited and the product should be viewed as a wellness supplement rather than a medical treatment.

For best results, supplements should be combined with lifestyle measures such as:

Regular walking or exercise

Elevating the legs when resting

Staying well hydrated

Maintaining a healthy weight

Ultimately, improving circulation in the legs usually requires a combination of healthy habits, movement, and medical guidance where necessary.

Eight-year-old raises £7,410 for school playground

A primary school pupil in West London who raised a staggering £7,410 to fund new playground equipment for younger children has opened the climbing frame his fundraising made possible.

Eight-year-old James “JC” Connor, a pupil at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School in Brentford, raised the funds after hearing younger pupils say they hoped the school might one day have a better climbing frame.

JC first heard the idea while taking part in the school’s School Council, where pupils share suggestions about how to improve school life.

Rather than simply raising the issue with teachers, he decided he wanted to try to make it happen.

With encouragement from teachers and family, JC organised a school raffle, donated a Disney on Ice VIP box as the prize, and launched an online fundraising campaign. Friends, parents and members of the wider community all contributed to the effort.

Together the fundraising raised enough money to fund a brand-new climbing frame for younger pupils at the school.

The total funds raised came from three initiatives organised by JC:

• School raffle (Disney on Ice box): £1,570

• Online auction (32 Auctions): £168.86 net

• JustGiving fundraising page: £5,490.61 net

The climbing frame was officially opened on Monday 16 March, with JC invited to cut the ribbon as younger pupils used the equipment for the first time.

JC told That's Health: “When I joined the School Council I heard younger children saying they wished they had a better climbing frame, so I wanted to try to help make it happen.”

Mrs Kelliher, Headteacher at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School, told us that  JC’s initiative had been an inspiring example for the whole school community.

“JC’s fundraising is a wonderful example of how our pupils live out the values we teach in school. His kindness and determination show how even the youngest members of our community can make a real difference.”

JC’s parents, Stephen and Ha Smith, said they had been inspired by their son’s determination to help younger children at the school.

“What began as a simple idea raised in the School Council became something so much bigger. We are incredibly proud of JC for wanting to help younger pupils and for showing that even a small idea can make a real difference when a community comes together.”

Several of JC’s classmates also contributed ideas for the design of the climbing frame, while a parent from the school community volunteered to assist with surfacing work during installation.

The school has also recognised JC’s efforts during assembly with its ‘Disciple of Hope’ certificate, celebrating pupils who demonstrate kindness, leadership and service to others.

The project has become an example of how a school community can come together to support younger pupils and turn an idea raised through the School Council into something lasting.

For more information visit: https://www.ourladyandstjohns.org.uk

Meningitis: The Warning Signs Everyone Should Know

Meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness that can develop quickly and affect people of all ages. 

Although it is relatively uncommon in the UK, it remains a major medical emergency because it can progress rapidly and cause permanent disability or death if not treated quickly. 

Understanding the risks, recognising the symptoms, and knowing how meningitis can be prevented are essential for protecting yourself and your family.

There have been reports of recent deaths from Meningitis which has encouraged us to write this blogpost.

What Is Meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. 

The condition is most commonly caused by bacteria or viruses, although fungi and parasites can occasionally be responsible.

There are two main types:

Bacterial meningitis

This is the most dangerous form and requires immediate hospital treatment. It can lead to severe complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, limb loss due to blood poisoning (septicaemia), or death.

Viral meningitis

This form is generally less severe and many people recover without specific treatment, although symptoms can still be unpleasant and medical care may be required.

Who Is Most At Risk?

While meningitis can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable.

Babies and young children are particularly at risk because their immune systems are still developing.

Teenagers and young adults also have higher rates of meningitis, especially those living in shared accommodation such as university halls.

Older adults, particularly those over 65, may have weakened immune systems that make infection more dangerous.

People with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing chemotherapy, living with certain chronic illnesses, or taking immune-suppressing medication, are also more vulnerable.

Symptoms to Watch For

Meningitis symptoms can appear suddenly and worsen quickly. Early recognition is vital.

Common warning signs include:

A high fever

Severe headache

Stiff neck

Sensitivity to light

Nausea or vomiting

Confusion or difficulty in concentrating

Cold hands and feet, limb pain, pale or mottled skin

A rash that does not fade when pressed can be a sign of meningococcal septicaemia, a dangerous complication often linked to meningitis.

In babies and young children, symptoms may also include:

A bulging soft spot on the head

High-pitched crying

Refusing feeds

Being unusually floppy or unresponsive

If meningitis is suspected, urgent medical attention is essential.

Prevention: Vaccines Save Lives

One of the most effective ways to prevent meningitis is through vaccination.

The UK’s NHS vaccination programme protects against several major causes of meningitis, including:

MenB vaccine for babies

MenACWY vaccine for teenagers and university students

Hib vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccine

These vaccines have dramatically reduced the number of meningitis cases in the UK over the past few decades.

Practising good hygiene, such as regular hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes, can also help reduce the spread of infections that may lead to meningitis.

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment depends on the cause of the infection.

Bacterial meningitis requires immediate hospital care, typically including:

Intravenous antibiotics

Fluids to prevent dehydration

Oxygen or breathing support in severe cases

Patients may also receive medication to reduce swelling around the brain.

Viral meningitis often improves with rest, fluids, and pain relief, although hospital monitoring may still be necessary.

Early treatment greatly improves outcomes, which is why recognising symptoms and seeking urgent help is so important.

A Medical Emergency That Requires Fast Action

Meningitis remains one of the most serious infections affecting the brain and nervous system. The key to survival and recovery is speed, recognising symptoms quickly and getting medical help immediately.

Vaccination programmes, improved awareness, and prompt treatment have saved many lives, but meningitis still poses a real risk.

Knowing the signs and understanding who is most vulnerable could make a life-saving difference.

If you suspect meningitis, seek urgent medical help immediately or call NHS 111. In a medical emergency, dial 999.

Early Access to Dementia Day Care Helps People Stay Connected and Engaged

Early access to day care can significantly improve quality of life for people living with dementia, yet long waiting lists for formal diagnosis and assessment are delaying access to vital support.

Age Concern Hampshire, which runs Care & Wellbeing Centres across the county, highlights that families can access valuable support while awaiting a formal diagnosis. 

The charity offers activities that include Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) and reminiscence sessions, interventions shown in research to support memory, communication, and cognitive function.

Early engagement with day care services also helps reduce isolation, supports emotional wellbeing, and encourages physical and social activity. Families frequently notice improvements in mood, confidence, and communication when support begins early.

“Very often, there can be long waits for formal assessments, leaving people without the structured support they need,” Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire told That's Health.

“Accessing day care early ensures people can benefit from therapies and social engagement throughout the whole of their dementia journey.”

Age Concern Hampshire runs dedicated Care & Wellbeing Centres across the county, providing tailored day care services for people living with dementia. 

Free taster days are available at all Care & Wellbeing Centres, allowing families to experience the service before making any commitment. Call 01962 868545 or visit their website to find out more: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire

Creativity for a cause: Charity art exhibition brings community together

The Chilterns Neuro Centre is celebrating the success of its vibrant Pop-Up Art Weekend, which welcomed over 1,000 visitors and raised over £23,000 to support people in the local community affected by MS, Parkinson’s and strokes.

Held in partnership with the Clare Foundation, the special weekend, which is celebrating its 21st year, brought together an inspiring collection of talented artists, art lovers, supporters and volunteers for a memorable community event filled with creativity and generosity.

Visitors had the chance to explore and purchase a wide range of artworks from an incredible group of artists who generously contributed at least a third of the sale from each piece of artwork sold to support the Centre’s vital services. 

The event created a lively and welcoming atmosphere while helping raise essential funds for the charity.

The Chilterns Neuro Centre would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Clare Foundation for partnering on this much-loved event. Their support and collaboration played a key role in making the weekend such a success.

Special thanks also go to the many talented artists who shared their creativity, the dedicated volunteers who generously gave their time to help run the event and the hundreds of visitors whose enthusiasm and support made the weekend so special.

“We are absolutely delighted by the success of the Pop-Up Art Weekend,” Hannah Fleming, Community and Events Manager at the Chilterns Neuro Centre” told That's Health.

"To welcome more than 1,000 visitors and raise over £23,000 is an incredible achievement. Events like this not only raise vital funds for our services but also bring the community together in a truly uplifting way.”

“It was a pleasure to partner with the Chilterns Neuro Centre for this fantastic event,” said Robin Walker, Chair of Trustees at the Clare Foundation. 

“The Pop-Up Art Weekend showcased not only exceptional artistic talent but also the power of community collaboration. We are proud to support the Centre and the invaluable work they do for people living with neurological conditions.”

Funds raised from the weekend will help the Chilterns Neuro Centre continue providing a wide range of treatments and services to people in the community affected by MS, Parkinson’s and strokes, empowering them to live life to the full.

https://www.chilternsneurocentre.org