Health bosses are warning people to be wary of norovirus this winter - but some simple steps could help to beat the bug.

While antibiotics are ineffective against the highly infectious winter vomiting bug, regular hygiene such as hand washing and safe food preparation can help to prevent infection.

The symptoms - which include sickness, diarrhoea, and flu like symptoms - begin around 12 to 72 hours after infection and usually last for 12 to 60 hours.

NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group clinical chair, Dr Bob Bowes, said: “If you develop norovirus symptoms, it’s best to be extra careful with hygiene, and avoid visiting friends or relatives.

"It’s also especially important not to attend or visit hospitals or care homes if you have symptoms.

“It can be quite unpleasant to experience, but it’s not usually dangerous and most people make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see their GP.”

Antibiotics do not work against viruses, but the following tips have been provided to help prevent infection:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water - particularly after going to the toilet, before preparing or eating food, and after changing a baby's nappy (alcohol gels are not effective against this particular virus
• Do not use dirty cutlery.
• Do not allow raw food to come into contact with cooked food.
• Ensure all food is thoroughly cooked, especially meat and shellfish.
• Avoid contact with anyone suffering from the virus for two to three days after they are completely free of symptoms.

For more information visit www.nhs.uk