Monday 7th February 2011

Players and management from Chesterfield Football Club and nurses from Derbyshire Community Health Services have joined forces to give one of the most virulent and severe winter bugs the 'Red Card'.

The 'Kick out Norovirus' campaign aims to highlight the danger of the winter sickness bug, one of the most contagious bugs in circulation, causing violent stomach upsets, mild fever, aches and flu-like symptoms.


(L - R): (back row) Tommy Lee, Shane Redmond, Mark Crossley (front row) Infection Control Nurses Jane Doyle, Kimberley Wynn and Jo Cockett

Nurses say there are ways to ease its spread if people avoid public places like hospitals, schools and nursing homes and stay at home when they show signs of the virus. This advice could be critical to the vulnerable, elderly or people with pre-existing health problems, where the illness can prove fatal.

Chesterfield FC goalkeeper Tommy Lee gave a helping hand to the cause, saying: "We're backing this campaign to 'Kick Out Norovirus' as we refuse to believe there's no defence against it.

"By following the advice of hospital nurses to stay at home, drink plenty of liquids and follow good hygiene we can all stay on the winning side and help prevent the spread of this nasty infection."

Nurses also stressed the need for people to remain at home for 72 hours after symptoms have disappeared, as the symptoms can still be passed on during this time.

Even visits to GP surgeries should likewise be avoided - as this is another key way the infection is spread.

Spireites coach Mark Crossley explained why the club, currently sitting on top of League 2, has good reason to support the campaign saying, "The football club is trying to take heed of the simple advice being put out as the last place we want is a virus being picked up in the dressing room and running through the first team squad.

"As a result, Chesterfield Football Club is putting it's weight firmly behind this important local campaign so watch out in the coming weeks for more helpful information on how to 'Kick Out Norovirus'."

Anyone with symptoms is being advised to telephone rather than visit their local GP for medical advice, or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

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