Norovirus sweeping the UK as people told they ‘must not’ go to work or school if ill as cases soar

In recent weeks, the UK has been hit with a sharp increase in cases of norovirus. People are being urged to remain indoors as the virus rapidly spreads throughout the country.

The alarm has been raised by health authorities, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issuing a critical alert about the surge in cases of the highly infectious disease. The UKHSA pointed out that levels of the virus are uncharacteristically high for this period of the year and haven’t followed the predicted pattern of decline typically seen in spring.

The feared winter vomit-inducing bug is wreaking havoc, leading to serious outbreaks of diarrhoea and vomiting. As highlighted by the Express, confirmed cases of norovirus have risen to an alarming 75 percent higher than the cumulative average over the past five years, according to data from the health authority.

It’s postulated by experts that the persistently cold weather experienced in May, as well as factors related to the post-Covid context, may be contributing elements to the tenacity of this virulent strain. Those who have fallen ill from the disease are being counselled to maintain stringent hygiene practices and abstain from attending work.

Amy Douglas, a Norovirus Epidemiologist at the UKHSA, has cited a combination of factors likely leading to this surge, noting: “Norovirus levels were higher in April than we would usually see at this time of year and have been increasing. This is likely due to a combination of factors, but the colder weather we have had won’t have helped.”, reports the Mirror.

“If you have got diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not 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 in these settings.”

“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.”

Earlier today it was reported a cruise ship plagued with hundreds of cases of Norovirus has been placed on lockdown while health agencies investigate. Countless passengers have shared horror stories in recent weeks after boarding the P&O Ventura from Southampton.

Holidaymakers described violent bouts of sickness, toilets “covered in excrement” and slammed the cruise ship company for its “disgraceful handling” of the situation. The outbreak allegedly started six weeks ago, during which time several cruises have gone ahead.