Norovirus cases in hospitals in England have jumped sharply and are now at their highest level for the 2022-23 season, figures show.
An average of 840 adult hospital beds were occupied last week by patients with diarrhoea and vomiting or norovirus-like symptoms, up 52% from 551 in the previous week. It is the highest number since reporting began for the current virus season in November 2022.
It is also nearly three times the level at this point last year, when the average stood at 293, according to NHS data. Norovirus is the most common infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhoea.
It spreads easily through contact with someone who has the virus or with contaminated surfaces. While most people make a full recovery within two or three days, the virus can lead to dehydration, especially among the very young, elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
Professor Stephen Powis, NHS medical director for England, said a “surge” in norovirus is one of a number of factors adding to “significant” pressure on NHS staff, along with increased demand for beds and a rise in calls to the 111 service.
“Despite this, the NHS is continuing to deliver progress against its elective recovery plan, with the number of people waiting over 18 months cut by over 9,000 in January compared with the previous month,” Professor Powis added.
“We know there has been little let-up for staff this week, with some hospitals experiencing their busiest Monday of the year while strike action continues to present major challenges to hospitals. So it is important that people continue to come forward for the care they need by using 999 in an emergency or using 111 online for other conditions.”
Tens of thousands of juniors doctors in England staged a 72-hour walk from Monday to Wednesday this week in protest at levels of pay. NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, urged the Government and unions to get round the table and “redouble” efforts to find a solution to the dispute. NHS staff answered 333,778 calls to the 111 service last week, up 12% from 297,586 the previous week.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
According to the NHS, the main symptoms of norovirus are:
feeling sick (nausea)
diarrhoea
being sick (vomiting)
You may also have:
a high temperature
a headache
aching arms and legs
The symptoms usually start suddenly within one to two days of being infected.
The health service also warns that norovirus can spread very easily, from close contact with someone with norovirus and by touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them, then touching your mouth.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. However the NHS warned that alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.
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