The NHS has issued a clear warning to the public: anyone experiencing two symptoms of norovirus should avoid visiting hospitals. This plea comes as cases of this highly contagious winter bug surge across the UK.
Recent data reveals that norovirus infections during the 2024/2025 season have exceeded the five-season average, with the 2025/2026 season also seeing heightened activity. Although the rise may be slowing, the numbers remain within expected seasonal levels.
A major contributor to this increase is a particular variant of norovirus known as GII.17. This genotype, highly infectious and known for causing acute gastroenteritis outbreaks, is making a significant comeback. GII.17 has now overtaken the previously dominant GII.4 strain as the most prevalent, leading to a spike in cases. Notably, infection with one genotype does not guarantee immunity against the other, so repeated infections may occur.
READ MORE: Strictly’s Dianne Buswell Shares Hopeful Update as Dad Undergoes Keyhole Surgery
READ MORE: BT, Vodafone, Three, Virgin, EE, and O2 to Block Scam Calls with Major Network Upgrade by 2026
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) explains that while both GII.17 and GII.4 circulate widely, neither currently appears to cause more severe illness than the other.
Hospitals across the country are feeling the strain from the surge, prompting NHS England to issue a “please don’t visit” message targeting anyone with two common symptoms: diarrhoea and vomiting. The North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust shared a heartfelt video featuring an emergency care nurse urging people who have had symptoms in the last 48 hours to delay hospital visits. The nurse emphasized, “You might feel better, but you could still carry and spread the infection to your loved ones.”
The hospital caption reinforced this message: “If you’ve had sickness or diarrhoea, please wait until you have been symptom-free for 48 hours before visiting hospital wards. This helps stop the spread of infection and protects our community and healthcare workers this winter.”
Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting bug,” causes sudden onset vomiting and diarrhoea. Although unpleasant, symptoms generally resolve within two days. Despite its nickname, norovirus can be contracted year-round.
Main symptoms include sudden diarrhoea and vomiting, often accompanied by stomach cramps, nausea, fever, or headache.
Most cases can be managed safely at home, with a key focus on staying well hydrated to prevent dehydration. NHS advice includes drinking plenty of fluids and seeking pharmacist guidance if symptoms worsen or if signs of dehydration—such as dark urine or reduced urination—appear.
Those at higher risk, including older adults, people with weakened immune systems, or underlying health conditions, should consult medical professionals promptly, as oral rehydration solutions may be recommended.
Norovirus spreads primarily through contact with infected faeces, making hygiene critical. It can be contracted through contaminated surfaces, food, or direct contact with infected individuals.
By following NHS guidance and avoiding hospital visits during the infectious period, individuals can help slow the spread and protect vulnerable patients and healthcare staff during this challenging winter season.