The National Medical Director for NHS England has issued an urgent warning about norovirus, which is rapidly spreading across the UK. Health officials are urging the public to take precautions as hospital admissions surge, with cases nearly 150% higher than this time last year.
Norovirus Cases Near Record Levels
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), norovirus cases remain at exceptionally high levels, prompting fears of a potential second wave. The latest NHS data reveals that an average of 1,134 patients were hospitalized daily last week due to norovirus—more than double the 470 cases recorded during the same period in 2023.
The virus is also driving a sharp rise in NHS 111 consultations, which have surged 40% in just one week—from 53,052 (Feb 12-18) to 74,324 (Feb 19-25).
Public Advised to Stay Home and Follow Hygiene Guidelines
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director of NHS England, emphasized the importance of preventing further spread, urging people to:
• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water (as alcohol gels do not kill norovirus)
• Avoid public places until 48 hours after symptoms stop
• Stay away from hospitals, care homes, schools, and workplaces if experiencing diarrhea or vomiting
While cases have slightly decreased compared to last week’s peak, hospitals remain under severe strain, with winter illnesses pushing bed capacity to critical levels.
Government Warns of Ongoing Health Service Pressure
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged that the NHS is still facing substantial winter pressures.
“These statistics show that we are still not out of the winter woods, and I want to thank all NHS staff for their hard work. Through the government’s Plan for Change, we will deliver the investment and reform required to turn our health service around,” he said.
Who is Most at Risk?
Norovirus is particularly dangerous for older adults, young children, and immunocompromised individuals, according to Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA.
She warned:
“If you have diarrhea and vomiting, do not visit hospitals, care homes, or return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Also, avoid preparing food for others, as you can still transmit the virus.”
To reduce the risk of infection, she urged the public to clean surfaces with bleach-based products and avoid relying on alcohol hand gels, as they do not kill norovirus.
What to Do If You Have Symptoms?
• Stay hydrated to avoid dehydration
• Rest at home and avoid contact with others
• Use NHS 111 online for advice if symptoms persist
• Only visit A&E in emergencies
As the government monitors the situation, health officials continue to stress that early prevention is key to avoiding further strain on the NHS.
