Urgent warning issued as NHS hit by ‘second surge’ of virus outbreak
NHS chiefs say the public 'has a huge role to play in stopping the spread'.
The NHS is facing a “second surge” of norovirus after cases rebounded to reach the highest level this winter. The number of sufferers needing hospital care has passed 1,000 for the first time this season, with 1,012 on wards last week — a 9% rise on the previous week. It comes after cases briefly stabilised in the first week of February.
NHS chiefs urged the public to help prevent the spread of infection by maintaining good hand hygiene. Anyone who has been sick with symptoms including diarrhoea and vomiting has been told to stay home for at least 48 hours. NHS national medical director Dr Claire Fuller said: “It’s vital that we do all we can to avoid a second surge in norovirus at a time when the NHS remains flat out coping with winter pressures.
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“The public has a huge role to play in stopping the spread of this bug by taking some simple precautions like good hand hygiene with regular handwashing with soap and water.
“If you have symptoms, stay home, rest and drink fluids, and please don’t go to places like, schools, workplaces, hospitals and care homes until you have been symptom free for at least two days.”
Symptoms of norovirus include feeling and being sick, diarrhoea, a high temperature, headache and body aches and pains.
Most people can recover at home with plenty of rest and fluids, and will start feeling better after two to three days.
However some may become more severely ill or suffer from dehydration. Older people, those with weakened immune systems and people with certain health conditions are at increased risk of dehydration.
An average of 1,257 adult hospital beds were closed due to norovirus symptoms this week, up more than 8% from 1,162 last week.
At least one hospital has imposed strict visiting restrictions due to high levels of norovirus.
Dr Fuller added: “If you have any concerns about norovirus symptoms, local pharmacies can provide support and advice and remedies, or please contact 111 or use 111 Online.”
