Norovirus spreading rapidly in England: Public advised to 'stay home'

As of December 8, 2024, more than 4,500 positive cases of norovirus have been recorded in England

People are advised to stay at home as cases of norovirus, commonly known as ‘the winter vomiting bug,’ soar across England.

A government report highlights that this year’s outbreak started earlier than usual and has exceeded typical levels for the season.

As of December 8, 2024, there have been 4,523 positive norovirus laboratory reports in England, more than double the five-season average of 2,057 for the same period.

The virus has impacted all regions and age groups, with the highest number of cases reported among adults aged 65 and over.

With cases increasing rapidly, hospitals have been forced to close thousands of beds to stop the spread of diarrhoea and vomiting to more patients.

The National Health Service (NHS) advises those infected to “stay home, rest and have plenty of fluids."

"Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about two days,” NHS said.

Health officials are also urging infected individuals to avoid work or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms pass, to avoid passing it on to others.

Instead of visiting a GP or hospital—where they risk spreading the virus—patients are encouraged to use the NHS 111 phone or online service for advice.

Symptoms to watch out for

NHS states that norovirus symptoms start suddenly within one to two days of being infected and include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, a high temperature, headaches, and aching limbs.

These symptoms can typically be managed at home, with the NHS advising individuals to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.

However, the NHS urges calling 999 or visiting A&E if the following symptoms occur:

• Vomiting blood or vomit resembling ground coffee
• Green vomit in adults
• Yellow-green or green vomit in children

Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads through:

• close contact with an infected person
• touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth
• eating food that's been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus

Frequent handwashing with soap and water remains the most effective way to prevent it spreading.