The National Health Service is grappling with a significant surge in norovirus cases, with the winter vomiting bug causing substantial disruption across hospitals in England. New data reveals that more than 1,100 hospital beds are currently either occupied by patients suffering from the virus or closed for essential infection control measures to prevent ward outbreaks.
Hospitalisations Reach New Winter High
Official figures show that the number of patients hospitalised with norovirus has increased for the fourth week running, reaching a new peak for this winter season. On average, 950 patients required hospital treatment for sickness and diarrhoea symptoms last week, representing a concerning 15% rise compared to the previous seven days.
This current figure surpasses the 898 patients recorded at the same point last year and is approaching last winter's peak of 961 hospitalisations. The data comes from the latest weekly performance snapshot of England's hospitals during the challenging winter period.
Expert Warning from NHS England's Medical Director
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS England's medical director and the service's top doctor, has issued a stark warning about the escalating situation. "Seasonal viruses continue to cause disruption and take up hospital beds, with cases of the winter vomiting bug triple what they were at the beginning of the month," she stated.
Professor Pandit emphasised that vulnerable patients, particularly elderly individuals, often require hospital admission due to severe dehydration resulting from persistent diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms.
Effective Prevention Measures
The NHS has reinforced crucial guidance for preventing norovirus transmission within communities and healthcare settings:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water remains the most effective defence
- Alcohol-based hand sanitisers do not work against norovirus
- People should not return to work, school, or nursery until they have been symptom-free for two full days
- Those feeling unwell should take extra precautions when preparing food for family members
- Avoid visiting hospitals unless absolutely necessary if experiencing symptoms
Broader Winter Health Context
While norovirus presents a growing challenge, other seasonal illnesses show varying trends. Influenza rates have decreased since last month's peak, though an average of 1,987 patients remained hospitalised with flu daily last week. COVID-19 hospitalisations averaged 647 patients per day during the same period.
Vaccination efforts have seen progress, with 18.8 million flu vaccines administered since the autumn/winter campaign began – approximately half a million more than at the same point last year.
Government Response and Public Advice
Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the pressures facing the NHS while highlighting areas of improvement. "This winter has pushed the NHS hard, but staff are delivering. Ambulances are handing over faster, delays are coming down and flu is taking up fewer hospital beds than last year, even with demand running at near-record levels," he commented.
Streeting added: "Winter pressures haven't gone away, but the NHS is meeting them head on. If you're eligible, get vaccinated, follow public health advice and help us keep the service there for everyone who needs it."
Patients experiencing severe symptoms, persistent illness beyond several days, or particular concerns are advised to contact NHS 111 or consult their GP for appropriate medical guidance.
