Norovirus: take these 3 steps to help stop the spread as cases of vomiting bug surge in two weeks
The NHS is continuing to face rising pressure from seasonal illnesses 🏥
- Norovirus cases have increased by 61.1% in the last two weeks.
- The UKHSA is reminding people of the steps they can take to stop the spread of norovirus.
- There has also been an increase in hospital outbreaks, putting pressure on services.
The NHS is continuing to face rising pressure from seasonal illnesses, with hospitals pushed to their busiest level for this time of year since the Covid pandemic.
The latest figures show that more general and acute hospital beds were occupied in the week ending January 18 (94.5%) than at any point during the middle of January since 2020 (95%).
The surge in demand is being driven by a spike in norovirus cases, with the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showing an increase of 61.1% in the last 2 weeks. There has also been a significant rise in cases in adults aged 65 and over, and outbreaks in hospital settings.
There were an average of 823 patients in hospital with norovirus each day last week, the highest number so far this winter and up 45% on the previous week and more than double what it was two weeks ago.
Why are cases of norovirus on the rise?
Cases of norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, have been on the rise this January. The increase is in line with what was predicted by the UKHSA, with a spike in infections after everyone spent time socialising over the festive season.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Norovirus cases have remained high in recent weeks and continue to rise, particularly among people aged 65 and over. This increase is in line with what we expected following Christmas, and we are now seeing hospital outbreaks begin to climb as well.”
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
The symptoms of norovirus can develop quickly, with the virus having an incubation period of 12 to 48 hours. Early signs include vomiting and diarrhoea, followed by a high temperature, headache and general aches and pains.
Whilst unpleasant, symptoms tend to resolve within two days. However, for young children, older adults or those with weakened immune systems, it can cause complications, including dehydration, which may need to be treated in a hospital.
How to stop spreading norovirus?
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact. If you develop symptoms of norovirus, the NHS recommend that you do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.
Also, avoid preparing food for others during this time, and visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent spreading the infection to vulnerable patients.
Amy said: “We should all remember the simple steps we can all take to stop norovirus spreading. Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so don’t rely on these alone.”
Norovirus cases have more than doubled in the last two weeks. Here are seven ways to treat the symptoms if you find yourself unwell.