With less than two weeks to go until Christmas Day, people are being urged to stop the spread of norovirus.

140 outbreaks have already been reported across the south west this winter.

Public Health England is urging people across the south west to protect themselves and their loved ones against norovirus by taking simple steps to stop the spread, particularly to vulnerable people.

Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

Most people will recover within a few days and can return to work or school, however if norovirus is introduced unintentionally into care homes and hospitals by visitors it can cause chaos, leading to ward closures and making it difficult for health-care workers to treat vulnerable patients at the busiest time of the year.

Advice includes:

* Don't visits hospitals, care homes or GP surgeries if you are suffering from symptoms of norovirus

* Once you’ve been symptom-free for at least 48 hours, you’re safe to return to work or school - or to visit relatives in hospitals and care homes

* Regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, and before eating or preparing food.

* Only hand-washing will prevent spread of norovirus.

Dr Liz Mearns, regional medical director for NHS England in the South West, said: "We know there will be real pressure on the NHS over the Christmas period.

"The impact can be huge if you spread norovirus or flu – not just on vulnerable patients who are already unwell - but on the availability of beds for other people. So please do your bit this winter to help keep others safe."