Hospitals across the UK are at breaking point as a mutant strain of flu, dubbed the “super flu,” spreads rapidly, with cases up 18% in just one week. At the same time, another virus—norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhea—is on the rise, creating a “double whammy” of illness just before the festive season.
Norovirus is particularly dangerous for older adults and young children due to weaker immune systems. New data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that cases in the first two weeks of December were nearly 30% higher than the previous fortnight.
On average, 3,140 flu patients were in hospital each day last week in England, up from 2,660 the week before, according to NHS statistics. Experts advise simple measures to prevent the spread of norovirus: frequent handwashing with soap, thorough cleaning of potentially contaminated surfaces, and washing laundry in hot water at 60°C or higher.
For shellfish like oysters, clams, and mussels, ensure thorough cooking at 62°C to kill any viruses.
Norovirus symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. The illness usually lasts two to three days, but people with weakened immune systems may experience longer symptoms and require medical attention.
NHS guidance recommends staying home, resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and not returning to work or sending children to school until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Seek emergency care or call 999 if you experience:
- Vomiting that contains blood or looks like coffee grounds
- Green or yellow vomit
- Stiff neck, severe headache, or sudden intense stomach pain
- Discolored or blotchy skin, or difficulty breathing
Experts emphasize that hand sanitizer alone is not enough to kill norovirus; frequent handwashing with soap and disinfecting surfaces is far more effective.
