Norovirus Outbreaks Increasing

While Covid restrictions have eased, other viruses and illnesses are still with us. The UK Health Security Agency – the new national body set up by the government in the wake of the pandemic – is reporting that it is seeing a greater increase in the number of norovirus infections than expected. These took place initially in educational settings, particularly in nursery and childcare facilities, with the number of reported cases being 48% higher than forecasts suggested.

In absolute terms, the number of cases reported cases remains small, with 24 reported in the week from 6^th February, rising to 40 the following week. Later statistics have not yet been published, so it is possible that the virus is already declining again after a winter peak. It is also notable that these numbers are smaller than those experienced before the Covid-19 pandemic. However, although patients usually recover within a couple of days, it is highly infectious and sensible precautions such as frequent hand washing with soap and warm water are a good idea. Notably alcohol hand gels don’t kill the norovirus.

As in many other areas, the after-shocks of the Covid pandemic are still being felt, as mixing increases and people gradually return to old routines. The UKHSA’s National norovirus Surveillance team will continue to monitor available data, in order to detect any unusual outbreaks.

You can read the UKSHA’s official report here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/norovirus-outbreaks-increasing-in-england-1