Hospitals are coming under pressure from hundreds of patients hit by the winter vomiting bug, health chiefs have warned. Latest NHS data shows there were an average of 823 patients in hospital with norovirus last week, up 45% on the previous week and the highest number recorded so far this winter.
The total is double the number of norovirus patients a fortnight ago, when 361 patients needed hospital care. NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit said: “A rise in this vomiting virus is leaving hospitals under pressure. Norovirus cases didn’t peak until February last winter, so we’re monitoring closely for further increases ahead of another predicted cold snap this weekend.”
The UK Health Security Agency said its data showed a 47% increase in norovirus cases during the first two weeks of 2026, compared to the previous fortnight.
Cases are highest among those aged 65 and over, with outbreaks in hospitals also rising. Health experts urged people to take simple steps to keep winter viruses like flu and norovirus at bay.
Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We have seen a notable increase in cases in recent weeks among those aged 65 years and over, with more hospital outbreaks also being reported.
“While this is still within expected levels, there are simple steps that people can take to reduce the spread of norovirus and ensure levels don’t rise further.
“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.
“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, don’t return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either.
“If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection to those most vulnerable.”
Meanwhile, the UKHSA said levels of flu and respiratory syncytial virus are falling.
Consultant epidemiologist Dr Alex Allen said: “We mustn’t be complacent because our data from previous years tell us that the end of the flu season could still be some months away.
“Respiratory viruses are unpredictable but there are steps people can take to reduce the spread and ensure we continue on this downward trend — including taking up a vaccine if you haven’t yet.
“Vaccine appointments are still available on the NHS national booking system and those most at risk who haven’t yet had their vaccine should make sure they take it up now to ensure they are protected for the remainder of the season.
“RSV vaccination remains open year-round for pregnant women and any older adults aged 75 to 80 who haven’t yet had a dose.”
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