Norovirus warning as new strain of horror superbug spreading through the UK

Norovirus cases are more than double their five year average and are set to rise over Christmas, according to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

The total number of reports of norovirus this year (2,849) was more than double the 5-season average for the same period (1,208), according to UKHSA figures.

The previous fortnight had 416 cases in England, which is 201 more than the the five year average over the same period, from 21 October to 3 November.

The GII.17 variant, nicknamed Kawasaki after the place it originated in Japan in 2014, is responsible for a majority 87% of cases.

Experts reiterate the need to isolate if you experience symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, and to wash hands thoroughly, because hand gel alone isn’t effective against norovirus.

Cases have decreased in recent weeks, coinciding with the October half-term, however experts warn it could rise over the festive period. 

Amy Douglas, epidemiologist at UKHSA said: “The half-term school break is likely to have interrupted the upward trend we’ve been seeing recently in norovirus levels, but cases are likely to rise again as we head towards Christmas.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, 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.”

Antibiotics are ineffective against noroviruses, and the NHS says you can usually treat symptoms at home.

It’s website says: “The most important thing is to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration. You will usually start to feel better in 2 to 3 days.”