By: Brain Akutei – Azu Mateko
Hospitals in England are experiencing the highest number of Norovirus cases ever recorded. According to NHS England, an average of 1,160 patients were hospitalized each day last week due to the virus. This is double the number of cases recorded during the same period last year.
The number of hospitalizations increased by 22% compared to the previous week, making it the highest since records began in 2012. Currently, more than 1% of hospital beds are occupied by patients suffering from Norovirus.
The virus is putting extra pressure on hospitals because infected wards need to be isolated and thoroughly cleaned to prevent further spread. Due to these safety measures, nearly 300 hospital beds were taken out of service each day.
Despite the surge in Norovirus cases, flu cases have been decreasing. NHS England reports that just over 1,700 hospital beds are occupied by flu patients, showing a decline in flu-related hospitalizations.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s medical director, expressed concern about the rising cases, stating that hospital staff are working hard to treat over a thousand Norovirus patients daily while also managing other winter illnesses. He advised people to wash their hands frequently with soap and water and to avoid contact with others until at least two days after symptoms stop to help prevent the spread.
Norovirus is usually mild for healthy individuals, but it can be dangerous for young children and vulnerable people. The virus spreads easily through direct contact, contaminated food, and infected surfaces. Some hospitalized patients may have even contracted the virus while in the hospital.
What to Do If You Have Norovirus
If you experience Norovirus symptoms, it is important to stay at home and avoid work or school until at least two days after the vomiting and diarrhea stop.
Drinking plenty of fluids is essential to stay hydrated. Regular handwashing with soap and water is highly recommended, as many household disinfectants and alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against the virus.
If symptoms persist for several days, or if a young child is unable to keep fluids down, it is important to seek medical attention.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to take preventive measures to reduce the spread of Norovirus.
