Norovirus Hospitalisations Surge 45% as NHS Warns of Winter Sickness Wave
England is facing a significant surge in norovirus cases, with NHS data indicating the nation may be on the brink of a major winter sickness wave. Hospitalisations for the vomiting bug have increased dramatically, placing additional strain on already busy healthcare services.
Sharp Increase in Hospital Bed Occupancy
The latest NHS figures reveal a concerning 45% rise in hospital beds occupied by norovirus patients last week, reaching an average of 823 daily admissions. This follows an even steeper 57% increase recorded in England the previous week, suggesting a worrying upward trend in infections.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS England Medical Director, emphasised the seriousness of the situation: "A rise in this vomiting virus is leaving hospitals under pressure. Norovirus cases didn't peak until February last winter, so we're monitoring closely for further increases ahead of another predicted cold snap this weekend."
Record Winter Hospitalisations
Current hospitalisation rates for norovirus symptoms represent a record high for this winter period and exceed figures from the same time last year. During the comparable period in the previous winter, an average of 784 beds were occupied daily by patients suffering from the bug.
The elderly population appears particularly vulnerable, with many requiring hospital admission due to severe dehydration resulting from persistent diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms. These cases contribute significantly to the mounting pressure on NHS resources during the challenging winter months.
Contrasting Trends with Influenza
While norovirus cases escalate, influenza hospitalisations in England have shown a different pattern, decreasing for the second consecutive week. Data indicates an average of 2,519 flu patients occupied hospital beds daily during the week ending January 18, representing an 8% reduction from the previous week's figure of 2,725.
However, health experts caution against complacency regarding respiratory viruses. Sarah Sleet, Chief Executive at Asthma + Lung UK, warned: "While the number of hospitalisations for flu have been declining, this could soon change with another bout of cold weather on the way so it's important that people don't become complacent as winter viruses continue to circulate and put the NHS under pressure."
Public Health Guidance and Prevention
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has urged the public to remain vigilant, stating: "Pressures remain high and we know another cold snap is on the way. I urge people to remain vigilant, follow the latest public health advice to keep you and your loved ones safe."
Professor Pandit provided specific prevention advice: "You can help prevent the spread of norovirus by frequent handwashing with soap and water and you shouldn't return to work, school or visit hospitals until you are 48 hours symptom-free."
For those experiencing symptoms, medical guidance recommends contacting NHS 111 or a GP if symptoms are severe, persist beyond a few days, or cause concern. Specifically, individuals should seek medical advice if they or their children experience diarrhoea for more than seven days or vomiting for more than two days.
Broader Respiratory Virus Context
Separate data from FluSurvey, the self-report surveillance system for flu-type symptoms, indicates that the number of people reporting cough or fever in the four weeks up to January 5 was 11% higher than during the same period last year.
Sarah Sleet further emphasised the importance of vaccination for vulnerable groups: "If you have a lung condition, please don't hesitate and book your free flu jab now – it could mean the difference between life and death. And despite any ongoing pressures on NHS services, always dial 999 if you are struggling to breathe."
The NHS continues to encourage people to seek care when needed, with Professor Pandit reassuring: "Although hospitals are incredibly busy, people should come forward for care as normal if they need it." The healthcare system remains on high alert as it monitors virus trends and prepares for potential further increases in winter illnesses.
