As children head back to school after the half-term holidays, the UK Health Security Agency has issued advice to curb the spread of flu and norovirus.

With cases of the illnesses on the rise, the West Midlands region has been reminded of the importance of maintaining good health over the winter.

The UKHSA warns that norovirus activity in the past two weeks is more than double the five-season average for the same period, and flu cases have been steadily increasing.

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The UKHSA West Midlands Health Protection Team has provided several tips to help families stay healthy as we approach winter.

Parents are encouraged to instil good hygiene habits in their children, such as regular handwashing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.

Hand sanitiser can also be used when handwashing isn't feasible.

This, according to the UKHSA, is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.

The UKHSA has also advised parents on when to keep their children at home.

Children with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough can still attend school if they are otherwise well and do not have a high temperature.

However, children with a fever, diarrhoea, or vomiting should stay home until symptoms have cleared.

Stomach bugs, which spread easily in schools and nurseries, can be contained by careful handwashing and cleaning surfaces with bleach-based products.

The UKHSA recommends not preparing food for others if you have such symptoms or for 48 hours after symptoms stop.

Vaccination is another key point in the UKHSA's advice.

Children eligible for the flu vaccine include those of primary school age, those aged two years (who have turned two years old before September 1, 2024), all three year olds, and secondary school children from year seven to year 11.

Paul Fisher, a consultant in health protection with UKHSA West Midlands, said: "As children return to school after the half-term holidays, it’s important that they get off to the best start possible ahead of winter.

"By following advice on good hygiene habits, knowing when to keep your child off school and taking up the opportunity to get vaccinated, parents are protecting their children and the wider school community."