By Lauren Haughey

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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an important message regarding how to manage certain ‘unpleasant’ illnesses. While it may be tempting to push through and continue with daily activities, the agency urged affected Brits to stay at home to prevent bugs from spreading . Earlier this morning (October 9), the UKHSA said on X : “Diarrhoea and vomiting is unpleasant for everyone. If you come down with a case, here is what you can do to reduce the spread.” Diarrhoea and vomiting are common symptoms that can affect people of all ages, including children and babies. They are usually caused by a stomach bug and can often be managed at home. Recovery generally takes a few days. Nonetheless, the UKHSA stressed that anyone experiencing this should stay ‘at home for 48 hours’ after the symptoms clear. This is likely because conditions like gastroenteritis can stay infectious even after you appear to recover, meaning they might still be transmitted to others. Anyone with high temperatures, headaches , and sore arms or legs should stay home if they have suffered diarrhoea and/or vomiting, too. Guidance from the NHS echoes this sentiment, adding: “Stay off school or work until you’ve not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days. “If you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better.” Beyond this, the NHS also lists various other ways you can help to avoid spreading an infection in such cases. These include the following: For those suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting, it also recommends avoiding: Usually, you don’t need to consult a GP for diarrhoea and vomiting, as they often resolve on their own. However, call 999 or visit A&E in these cases: For more information, head to the NHS website .