Doctor's official advice as Brits could be hit with brutal illness on Christmas Day

Doctors have given their expert opinion on the possibility of contracting a horrific illness during the festive period.

Temperatures across the UK have dropped dramatically this week just in time for the build-up to one of the busiest times of the year - Christmas and New Year.

But before we can get there and celebrate, there is a pressing health matter that the country's population has had to deal with which has taken the nation by storm in the past month or so.

A doctor has revealed some advice for those that may come down with the dreadful virus known as the 'winter vomiting bug'.

Cases of norovirus across the UK have increased significantly in recent weeks (Getty Stock Photo)

Known as norovirus, Brits have already been warned in recent months about its effects after cases surged in recent weeks to a higher than normal season average, double to be exact.

Unfortunately, the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal that the numbers for norovirus aren't slowing down ahead of the festive period, as 416 lab confirmed reports have revealed that the cases are double the levels of pre-Covid cases this time of year.

What is Norovirus?

The NHS describes the nasty stomach bug as 'very unpleasant', that can go in about two days after being contracted.

Main symptoms include the likes of diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting among other signs.

Health professionals have heavily advised those with the bug to stay at home while recovering, also waiting 48 hours after symptoms subside to return to work/school, to prevent spreading it to others.

What are the symptoms of Norovirus?

The NHS mentions vomiting, diarrhoea, feeling nauseous, a high temperature, a headache, or arm/leg aches as the main symptoms, which usually kick in a day or two after being infected.

You can treat yourself at home by resting and drinking fluids.

The nasty virus is spread through close contact with those who are infected, such as touching surfaces that have been contaminated, or eating food that was handled with someone with norovirus.

Using soap and water to clean your hands over sanitiser is crucial, as the latter doesn't properly get rid of all the bacteria.

You'll want to wash your hands thoroughly and often to protect yourself from norovirus (Getty Stock Photo)

What have experts said about norovirus and Christmas?

Amy Douglas, an epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated: "The half-term school break is likely to have interrupted the upward trend we've been seeing recently in norovirus levels, but cases are likely to rise again as we head towards Christmas."

She further added not to return to work or school until your symptoms have stopped for 48 hours.

"If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.

'Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading," she urged.

Dr Lesley Larkin, Interim Deputy Director, Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety (One Health) Division at UKHSA told the Mirror: "Norovirus cases continue to rise, especially among those 65 and older and in care homes.

"If you have norovirus or any other stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing it on to family and friends over the festive period.

"Don’t prepare food for others if you have symptoms or for 48 hours after symptoms stop."