People are being asked to help stop the spread of the winter vomiting bug norovirus across the South West.

Over the past month there have been twice as many community outbreaks reported in the South West compared to last year - mainly in care homes, nurseries and schools.

There have also been more hospital ward closures, and more GP consultations for vomiting, diarrhoea and gastroenteritis than last year.

People are advised to wash their hands thoroughly using soap and water and drying them after using the toilet, before preparing food and eating. They should not rely on alcohol gels as these do not kill the virus.

If people do develop symptoms, they should avoid GP surgeries and hospitals to help stop the infection spreading.