Health authorities in England have issued a renewed public health alert as cases of the highly contagious norovirus continue to remain at elevated levels across the country. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed today that while the rate of infection has stabilised in recent weeks, the overall number of laboratory-confirmed cases is still significantly higher than the typical seasonal average for this time of year.
Significant Increase in Reported Cases
The most recent surveillance data reveals a concerning trend. Laboratory reports of norovirus between week six and week seven of 2026 were recorded at 37.6% above the five-season average for the same period. This persistent elevation in case numbers has prompted health chiefs to reinforce their warnings to the public about the virus's spread and impact.
Understanding the 'Winter Vomiting Bug'
Commonly known as the 'winter vomiting bug', norovirus is the leading infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhoea in the United Kingdom. Despite its seasonal nickname, the virus can strike at any time of the year and is notoriously contagious. It spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces and objects.
While most healthy individuals recover from the illness within two to three days, medical experts caution that the virus can leave some patients feeling profoundly fatigued and unwell for up to a full week. The onset of symptoms is often sudden and can be severe.
Recognising the Symptoms
The primary and most recognisable symptoms of a norovirus infection include intense nausea, projectile vomiting, and watery diarrhoea. However, there are several additional, lesser-known symptoms that can contribute to a prolonged and uncomfortable illness.
- A high temperature or fever
- Persistent headaches
- Significant abdominal pain or cramping
- Aching muscles in the arms and legs
Key Risks and Official Guidance
The principal health risk associated with norovirus is dehydration, resulting from fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhoea. This complication can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups, including infants, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Official NHS and UKHSA guidance is unequivocal for those who fall ill: stay at home. This is the most effective way to prevent further transmission. Parents are advised to keep children away from school or nursery for a minimum of 48 hours after all symptoms have completely subsided.
Effective Management and Treatment
There is no specific cure for norovirus, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing dehydration. The NHS provides clear advice for those affected:
- Maintain Hydration: Drink regular, small sips of water or diluted squash throughout the day. Avoid fruit juices and fizzy drinks, as they can worsen diarrhoea.
- Continue Normal Feeding for Infants: Breast or bottle-feeding should continue as usual. If a baby is vomiting, try offering smaller, more frequent feeds.
- Resume Eating Gradually: When appetite returns, start with simple, bland foods like toast, rice, or bananas. Avoid rich, fatty, or spicy foods initially.
- Use Pain Relief Cautiously: Paracetamol can help manage fever and aches. Always follow packet instructions, especially for children's doses.
- Avoid Certain Medications: Do not give anti-diarrhoea medicine to children under 12 years old. Never give aspirin to anyone under the age of 16.
- Prepare Formula Correctly: For bottle-fed babies, never dilute formula with extra water; always prepare it at the standard recommended strength.
By following this guidance, practising rigorous hand hygiene with soap and water, and isolating while symptomatic, individuals can help curb the ongoing spread of this disruptive and unpleasant virus across communities in England.
