Overview
- UKHSA reports national norovirus activity is within expected ranges, with lab-confirmed reports in weeks 52–1 running 12.5% below the recent five-season average.
- Four NHS trusts have declared critical incidents, citing rising admissions linked to norovirus and flu and increased staff sickness.
- Admissions are currently highest among people aged 65 and over, heightening strain on hospitals and care settings.
- Public guidance urges people to stay home for 48 hours after symptoms stop, wash hands with soap and water, use bleach-based cleaning, and avoid preparing food or visiting hospitals and care homes.
- There is no approved vaccine or antiviral; care is supportive, and researchers are advancing candidates and studying viral entry using 3D intestinal models and receptor identification.