UP TO 14 children have been affected by an outbreak of Norovirus in an area of Basingstoke.

A concerned parent, who wished not to be named, informed The Gazette that over the weekend of October 21 and October 22 her daughter had been vomiting after contracting the virus.

The source of the outbreak is not known at this time, but it is believed to be in the Brookvale area.

The mother who contacted The Gazette said that her daughter and two friends had started showing symptoms on Friday, 20 October and that she had heard of at least 10 other children from around the area who had been vomiting.

Norovirus, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting is commonly referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’.

Following the news of the outbreak and with winter approaching Public Health England (PHE) said there isn’t much that can be done to treat the virus, but there are steps which can be done to reduce its impact.

As a highly contagious virus, residents are being reminded of the importance of good hygiene by thoroughly washing hands with soap and warm water.

Nick Phin, national infection service deputy director, at PHE said: “Norovirus can be unpleasant and is easily passed on to those around you. Most people get over it within a day or two but in the very young, elderly or those who have weakened immune systems it can last longer and it is easy to get dehydrated, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent this.

“It is transmitted by touching hands or surfaces that the virus has landed on. All surfaces should be thoroughly disinfected after any episode of illness.

“Those who have diarrhoea and vomiting should not prepare food until 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared. We advise that they should avoid visiting GP surgeries, care homes and hospitals if they have symptoms.”

One of the best ways to protect against norovirus and to help prevent infection is by practising good hygiene.