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People who contract the extremely contagious GII.17 strain of norovirus are advised to stay at home for 48 hours, according to a warning from the UK Health Security Agency. According to the agency’s weekly statement, this variety has been the cause of the majority of cases during the winter of 2024–2025.
Norovirus activity is “now increasing again across all age groups, with the biggest increase in adults, particularly adults aged 65 years and over,” according to the research. Compared to the preceding two weeks, there was a 31.6% increase between November 4 and November 17, 2024.
The total number of reports was nearly twice as high as the average for the same period across five seasons. Since the 2024–2025 season began, the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) has received 19.4% more norovirus outbreak reports than the five-season average.
It “is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise,” although some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the growing use of PCR multiplex technology, a test that detects multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one go.
According to the UKHSA, norovirus genogroup 2 (GII) has been shown to be responsible for the bulk of cases (89%) this season, with GII.17 accounting for the most cases (66.3%).
This variety is being closely watched and has also increased in other counties in 2024. They guarantee, though, that there isn’t any proof yet that it leads to more serious illnesses.
Symptoms of norovirus
According to the UKHSA, norovirus symptoms might include fever, stomach ache, and aching limbs in addition to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you do become ill, it’s crucial to drink lots of fluids because norovirus infections can induce dehydration, especially in susceptible groups like small children and elderly or immunocompromised individuals.
“We continue to see high levels of norovirus circulating in our communities,” stated Amy Douglas, UKHSA epidemiology. Take precautions to prevent spreading the infection if you have contracted it. Wait 48 hours after your symptoms have subsided before going back to work, school, or the nursery if you have diarrhea or vomiting. During that time, you should also avoid preparing food for other people.
“Avoid visiting patients in hospitals and assisted living facilities if you are ill in order to avoid spreading the infection there. Infections can also be prevented from spreading by cleaning surfaces with bleach-based solutions and washing your hands with soap and warm water. Don’t rely just on alcohol gels because they don’t eradicate norovirus.
Nausea is one of the main symptoms
Updates on COVID, flu, and RSV
The most recent stance on COVID, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was also covered in the weekly update. It stated that whereas RSV and flu had both increased, COVID levels remained constant.
It went on to say: “It’s critical to recognize the warning signals because RSV is currently causing an increase in ER visits. Breathlessness, difficulties eating, and a worsening cough are some of the primary signs of a dangerous RSV infection. If you’re concerned that your child is extremely ill, you should get medical treatment. The NHS website has more advice.
The increase in winter illnesses over the previous week, along with an increase in ED visits, is due to flu, according to Dr. Alexander Allen, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA. We anticipate that flu and other respiratory viruses may spread more readily during the busy winter months, so anybody who is still eligible for the flu, COVID-19, or RSV vaccines should schedule an appointment in advance. The strongest defense against these illnesses is vaccination, so now is the ideal time to be vaccinated before Christmas.
There are plenty of bugs around
“Try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable, if you are exhibiting signs of the flu or COVID-19, such as a high temperature, cough, and feeling exhausted and achy. Using tissues and washing your hands frequently can help stop the spread of respiratory diseases.
Additionally, RSV is still spreading more widely, with increases observed in all age categories. We may now provide the RSV vaccine to anyone who is 28 weeks or more pregnant, as well as those who are 75 to 79 years old, for the first time this year.
RSV immunization has been made available to expectant mothers since September 1, 2024, at the time of their 28-week prenatal visit. According to the UKHSA, receiving the vaccination during week 28 or shortly thereafter will enable the mother produce enough antibodies to transfer to her unborn child before delivery. Even if the kid is born early, this will provide the best safety for them. A free NHS vaccination against RSV is also available to adults who turn 75 and those between the ages of 75 and 79.
