England’s chief medical officer has appealed to the populace to self-isolate for two days upon feeling unwell, following a significant rise in Norovirus cases across the nation.
Recent NHS data indicates that the average daily hospital admissions for the virus last week stood at 1,094, a figure that more than doubles the admissions recorded during the same period the previous year.
This advisory emerges shortly after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) predicted a potential second surge of Norovirus, with laboratory confirmations reaching their highest since such data began to be collated in 2014.
The initial spike in cases peaked towards the end of January, seeing an average of 898 daily hospitalisations in the week commencing January 20.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director for NHS England, highlighted the persistence of winter challenges for NHS staff despite milder weather, noting the relentless effort to manage thousands afflicted with Norovirus and other seasonal viruses.
“Last month alone, Norovirus accounted for nearly 44,000 lost bed days, exacerbating the already severe pressures on bed availability due to flu, RSV, and increased staff absences compared to last year,” he explained.
Professor Powis stressed the importance of regular hand washing with soap and water and avoiding contact with others until symptom-free for two days to curb the virus’s spread.
He also emphasized the crucial role of NHS services, advising the public to reserve emergency calls and A&E visits for life-threatening situations and to seek guidance for other conditions through NHS 111 and its online services.
Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director for Gastrointestinal Infections at UKHSA, noted the particular impact of high Norovirus levels on hospitals and care homes, underlining the strain on these facilities.
