Hospitals in England have been forced to close more than 1,100 beds over the last week due to norovirus.
NHS England has urged people to stay at home if they get the bug – which causes vomiting and diarrhoea – to avoid passing it on. It said adults and children should not return to work or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms pass.
Data from Public Health England (PHE) showed the number of norovirus laboratory reports for 11-24 November was 28% higher than the average for the same period in the previous five years.
Almost double the number of hospital beds have been closed every day over the last week than at the same time last year, as trusts try to stop the bug spreading between patients.
Prof Stephen Powis, the NHS England medical director, said the number of hospitals and schools affected by norovirus was likely to rise over the coming weeks.
He said: “It’s a really unpleasant illness to catch, but for the vast majority of people it will usually pass in a couple of days, and self-treating at home is the best way to help yourself and avoid putting others at risk.
“Crucially, if you’re experiencing norovirus symptoms it’s important that you don’t return to work or school for 48 hours after they clear – and avoid visiting elderly or ill friends and relatives – to avoid spreading it to other people.”
Nick Phin, PHE’s national infection service deputy director, said: “Cases of norovirus are at higher levels than we would expect to see at this time of year, although this is not unprecedented.
“Practising good hygiene is one of the best ways to protect against norovirus. This includes thorough handwashing with soap and warm water after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.”
He advised people with symptoms not to visit GP surgeries and hospitals, and said anyone with concerns should contact NHS 111 or talk to their GP by phone.
Norovirus is often called the winter vomiting bug because it is most common at that time of year. It is highly contagious and people who have been infected can pass it on for some time.
