As seasonal illnesses continue to strain hospitals, Britain’s top medical expert is advising people to stay home for at least two days if they experience norovirus symptoms.
This warning comes as the NHS struggles with a surge in winter-related infections, including Covid-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
With viruses spreading rapidly in healthcare settings, nearly 50,000 NHS staff were off sick daily last week—an increase of almost 10% compared to last year.
This shortage is making it even harder for hospitals to cope.
Despite the arrival of warmer weather, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s national medical director, emphasized that winter challenges are far from over.
He stressed the importance of frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with others until symptoms subside.
Norovirus Cases Double, Overwhelming Hospitals
The latest NHS data shows that an average of 1,094 patients per day were hospitalized with norovirus last week—more than double the number seen during the same period last year.
To prevent the virus from spreading within hospitals, medical staff had to close nearly 300 beds daily.
Experts suggest a more contagious strain of norovirus now accounts for nearly 70% of cases, making the outbreak even harder to control.
Since the start of the 2024/2025 season, reported hospital outbreaks of norovirus have surged 26% above the five-year average.
This has placed additional strain on the already overwhelmed NHS, with hospital bed occupancy reaching 95.6%.
Bed Shortages and Delayed Discharges Worsen Crisis
The growing number of norovirus patients is adding to an already critical situation.
Last month alone, norovirus led to 40,000 lost bed days—equivalent to patients staying in hospital for a full 24 hours.
Additionally, almost one in seven hospital beds were occupied by patients who were medically fit for discharge but remained due to delays in arranging community or social care.
Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers, pointed out that ongoing pressures across the NHS are evident everywhere.
“Norovirus has led to thousands of bed closures, flu remains widespread, and Covid-19 hospitalizations are rising,” she said.
The situation is also contributing to high staff absences, making it even harder for hospitals to function efficiently.
Government Response and Preventative Measures
Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the challenges but expressed appreciation for NHS staff working tirelessly under immense pressure.
While some areas have seen a slight easing of cases, he emphasized that the health service remains under considerable strain.
He highlighted efforts to combat seasonal illnesses, including delivering over 29 million vaccinations and resolving doctor strikes to ensure more medical staff remain on duty.
Although most norovirus cases do not require medical attention, the virus can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
Severe dehydration may lead to hospitalization in such cases.
Norovirus spreads easily through close contact, contaminated surfaces, or infected food.
Health experts recommend staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and using paracetamol to manage fever or muscle aches.
Since many norovirus cases go unreported, the true number of infections in the community is likely much higher than official figures suggest.
As hospitals continue to battle this wave of infections, the NHS urges the public to take preventive measures seriously, helping to curb the spread and reduce the strain on the health system.