Norfolk residents are being asked to help prevent the spread of Norovirus as winter approaches.

Sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug, the illness is the most common stomach bug in Britain.

It is highly contagious and can affect people of all ages although it should not normally last more than a couple of days.

Cases of Norovirus have already been seen in the region with outbreaks in west Norfolk.

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn has had several wards and staff affected by the bug.

Outbreaks of Norovirus in public places, such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools, are common because the virus can survive for several days on surfaces or objects touched by an infected person.

To prevent its spread, public health officials are asking people to wash their hands frequently with warm, soapy water.

Anyone with vomiting and diarrhoea should also remain at home and off work for at least 48 hours after their last symptoms.

Norovirus is unpleasant but usually something that normally healthy people can recover from at home without needing to see a doctor.

Symptoms include initially feeling sick followed by vomiting and diarrhoea.

Some people may also have a raised temperature, headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching limbs.