The season of stomach bugs threatens but the NHS and Kent County Council say some simple steps can help beat the bug.

Norovirus is the most common cause of stomach upset in England and Wales and can affect people of any age. It is more prevalent during colder winter months.

The symptoms of the virus begin between 12 to 72 hours after picking up ithe infection and usually last for anywhere between 12 to 60 hours.

KCC interim director of Public Health, Andrew Scott-Clark said: “Whilst this condition, sometimes called ‘winter vomiting disease’ or ‘winter vomiting bug,’ is an unpleasant experience, the infection tends to be short lived and most people will just need to drink plenty of fluids and take plenty of rest.

"However, people who are already ill, such as patients in hospital, can sometimes get quite poorly as the illness can interfere with the effectiveness of the medicines they are taking and also make them weak and dehydrated.”

Dr Bob Bowes chair of NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Patients start by feeling nauseous, and this is often followed by actually being sick.

"Some people will have a raised temperature, headaches and aching limbs or flu-like symptoms. Most people make a full recovery within one to two days, but some people - usually the very young or elderly - may become very dehydrated and require medical treatment.

“We’d urge people to be extra careful with hygiene if they or any of their family develop norovirus, and not to visit friends or relatives. It’s also especially important not to attend or visit hospitals or care homes if you have symptoms."

Norovirus is contagious, is spread mainly from person to person and occasionally through food preparation, and is more likely to spread where people are in close proximity.

Public places, like hospitals, schools and offices are susceptible to outbreaks and people are being advised to stay at home until they are free of the symptoms.

For tips on how to avoid norovirus, visit: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Norovirus/Pages/Introduction.aspx