Norovirus, often referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug', is one of the most common gastric illnesses in the UK. It has severe symptoms that can last several days and can have long-term effects such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and psychological damage. If you have suffered from norovirus, we might be able to help you make a compensation claim.

Norovirus can spread very quickly in public places such as restaurants, hospitals, schools, hotels or cruise ships. The main way you can catch norovirus is by eating contaminated food - but the virus can also be spread by touching a contaminated surface or being in close contact with someone who has the illness.

In many instances, norovirus spreads because an organisation or business has not adequately followed hygiene procedures. If you have fallen ill because these procedures have been neglected, you may be able to claim compensation for your suffering and to cover any expenses you have incurred.

Our specialist team of lawyers has years of experience successfully bringing claims, securing vital compensation for clients who have contracted norovirus at home, abroad, or at sea.

Get in touch with our expert team today and find out if you can make a No Win No Fee* norovirus claim - call us on 0800 056 4110 or contact us online.


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Norovirus Claims - More Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Symptoms Of Norovirus?

The main symptom that distinguishes norovirus from other gastric illnesses is the sudden onset of projectile vomiting. This is usually followed by:

  • Nausea
  • Watery diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain

These symptoms appear one to two days after you become infected and usually last up to three days. Some people also report developing a slight fever, headaches and aching limbs.

In serious cases, a norovirus infection can lead to post-infective irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and changes in bowel habits. It can also cause lasting psychological damage, particularly for children who might associate travelling or eating out with their illness in the future.

Norovirus usually clears up on its own, but in the meantime paracetamol can help with fevers, aches and pains. There are also steps you should take to aid your recovery:

  • If possible, stay at home (or in your room if you're on holiday)
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Stick to plain foods
  • Get lots of rest

If you have had these symptoms, you may be able to make a norovirus claim to compensate you for your suffering, as well as any lost earnings or expenses you have incurred. Call us today on 0800 056 4110 to find out more.


Who Is Responsible For Norovirus Outbreaks?

Norovirus is carried in small particles of infected vomit or faeces. It can spread when hygiene procedures break down, leading to food or surfaces becoming contaminated and these particles being passed onto other people.

Businesses and organisations have a public duty to prevent contamination in the buildings and spaces they are responsible for. This includes:

  • Cleaning premises on a regular basis and having procedures in place to monitor this
  • Following hygiene regulations when preparing, cooking and serving food
  • Ensuring staff members or pupils with norovirus infections do not return to work/school until 48 hours after their illness has passed
  • Containing any suspected outbreak to prevent further infection (particularly in hospitals, cruise ships and nursing homes where sufferers cannot be sent home)
  • Closing premises where necessary for the purpose of a deep clean to remove any contamination.

Because of the highly infectious nature of norovirus, it's crucial that these measures are in place to prevent the spread of infection. Outbreaks are more likely to occur in places where many people are together, including:

  • Restaurants and hotels
  • Cruise ships
  • Schools
  • Hospitals and nursing homes

If you've suffered norovirus because an organisation has not upheld its duty of care to you, our dedicated and experienced team can help you claim compensation.

If you have fallen ill on a cruise or package holiday, we may be able to make your claim against the cruise line or holiday operator in the UK rather than in the country where you fell ill. Find out more in our Illness Abroad page.


Why Choose Irwin Mitchell For Norovirus Claims?

At Irwin Mitchell we fight fearlessly to achieve the best outcome for you when you make a norovirus claim. Our specialist illness lawyers have extensive experience helping those who have been struck down with norovirus, whether at home or abroad.

We'll do everything we can to make things easier for you and your family, keeping you informed about the progress of your case at every stage and ensuring you have the support that you need. We'll talk to you in plain English, without jargon. Our lawyers offer the highest level of professionalism and expertise, combined with dedication and sensitivity. We always work to get you compensation that accounts not only for your pain and suffering in the short term, but also for the longer term effects on your health. Above all, we put you first.

We also have extensive experience in international claims - which is especially important as many cases of norovirus happen on cruise ships, or in holiday resorts where hygiene standards may not be as high as here in the UK.

As a full-service law firm we're able to make sure every aspect of your case is taken care of, drawing on skills and expertise from other parts of the business where necessary. With offices across the country, we're always there when you need us.

Call us today on 0800 056 4110 for a free consultation with no obligation.


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