UK advises people with diarrhoea or vomiting to stay home 48 hours

The UK Health Security Agency on October 9 issued guidance urging people with diarrhoea or vomiting to stay at home and avoid contact with others until 48 hours after symptoms have cleared, saying the measure helps reduce onward transmission of common stomach illnesses. The agency said these symptoms can affect people of all ages and are usually caused by a stomach bug or food poisoning, and that they often resolve within a few days with home care.

"Diarrhoea and vomiting is unpleasant for everyone. If you come down with a case, here is what you can do to reduce the spread," the agency said in a social media post. Health officials and NHS guidance advise that adults and children should remain off school or work until they have been free of vomiting and diarrhoea for at least two days. Those with a high temperature or who do not feel well enough to carry out normal activities are also asked to stay home until they recover.

Officials say the most important immediate step is to maintain fluid intake to avoid dehydration. Vomiting typically stops within one to two days and diarrhoea within five to seven days, but people should monitor for signs of dehydration such as reduced or dark...