Brits planning a trip to Spain have been warned about a nasty virus sweeping through a beloved holiday destination.

An urgent pre-Easter alert has been issued by the regional Andalusian government following an outbreak of the stomach virus in the Costa del Sol area.

Health officials say they are determined to halt the highly contagious so-called stomach flu in its tracks. They are urging the public to take specific precautions against a virus that typically triggers nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, which can strike suddenly.

The surge has already led to increased demand for healthcare and hospital admissions across various parts of the region, according to Europa Sur. The bustling Easter weekend, when large numbers of worshippers will take to the streets of Andalusia, has been described as “an ideal breeding ground” for the bug.

Andalusia encompasses eight regions popular with holidaymakers: Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaen, Malaga and Seville. Millions of tourists are expected to descend on the area for the Easter holidays, including a significant number of British families.

The Andalusian regional government released a statement detailing the preventive measures the public should adopt against cases of nonspecific gastroenteritis — commonly referred to as stomach flu — which are on the rise throughout the region. This highly infectious virus is predominantly spread through direct contact with those who are already infected and can affect individuals of any age. It typically triggers symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pain, which strike suddenly and, in the vast majority of cases, clear up within a matter of days.

According to a statement from the Andalusian Regional Government, in order to lower the risk of infection, the Health Department advises washing hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after visiting the toilet and before preparing or consuming food. It is also recommended to disinfect surfaces with diluted bleach and to refrain from handling food should you experience symptoms consistent with this infection.

Should you develop this type of illness, experts recommend staying properly hydrated by drinking water, broth, or oral rehydration solutions, steering clear of alcoholic or sugary drinks, consuming light meals and getting adequate rest.

While there is no specific treatment or vaccine for this infection, basic care is generally sufficient for a full recovery. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Health advises seeking medical attention if diarrhoea persists for more than three days, if vomiting prevents adequate hydration, if there is blood in the stool, or if symptoms are affecting vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, or patients with pre-existing conditions.

People should also remain vigilant for signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth, dizziness, or reduced urination. Ultimately, the Ministry of Health has stressed that implementing these measures assists in limiting transmission and safeguarding the wellbeing of the broader population.