Hospitalisations for norovirus have reached a new peak in England this winter, placing the NHS under what health leaders describe as "sustained pressure." The latest data reveals that an average of 950 hospital beds were occupied daily last week by patients exhibiting norovirus-like symptoms, such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
Rising Norovirus Cases and Declining Flu Numbers
This figure represents a significant 15% increase from the previous week, when an average of 823 patients were hospitalised with similar symptoms. Moreover, the current rate is higher than that recorded at the same time last year, highlighting a concerning trend in the spread of the winter vomiting bug.
In contrast, flu hospitalisations have shown a notable decline. The most recent weekly snapshot indicates that an average of 1,987 flu patients were in hospital each day during the week ending 25 January, marking a 21% decrease from the previous week. This is the lowest level in almost two months, down from a peak of 3,140 in mid-December.
Critical Care and Ambulance Handover Improvements
The number of flu patients in critical care beds also fell slightly, from 82 to 74 last week. Additionally, there has been some progress in ambulance handover times. The proportion of patients waiting at least 30 minutes to be transferred to A&E teams dropped from 33% to 30%, while delays of over an hour decreased from 12% to 10%.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS England's national medical director, commented on the situation, stating, "Hospitals continue to face sustained pressure from viruses and other demands, but NHS staff have worked hard to tackle winter head-on and it looks like this is having an impact." She attributed the improvements in flu cases and handover times to earlier winter preparations and increased vaccination efforts, with half a million more vaccinations delivered compared to last year.
Public Health Advice and Government Response
Professor Pandit emphasised the importance of preventive measures, noting that norovirus cases have tripled since the start of the month. She advised the public to practice frequent handwashing with soap and water and to avoid returning to work, school, or visiting hospitals until 48 hours after symptoms subside to curb the spread.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the challenges, saying, "This winter has pushed the NHS hard, but staff are delivering." He highlighted that despite near-record demand levels, ambulances are handing over faster, delays are reducing, and flu hospitalisations are lower than last year, crediting frontline staff dedication and enhanced preparation.
While winter pressures persist, the NHS is actively addressing these issues, with ongoing efforts to manage the dual burden of norovirus and other seasonal illnesses.
