The NHS has issued a ‘please don’t visit us’ hospital plea to anyone experiencing two symptoms as cases of a winter bug increase
(Image: Getty )
The NHS has issued a plea to the public, urging them not to visit hospitals if they are experiencing two specific symptoms, as cases of a winter bug surge.
The UK has seen an uptick in norovirus cases recently, with numbers exceeding the five-season average for the winter period of 2024/2025.
The current 2025/2026 season is also witnessing an increase, although recent data suggests that this rise may be slowing down and remains within expected levels for this time of year.
However, this increase is partly attributed to a variant known as GII.17, which is on the rise again, leading to more infections. Some individuals may contract it multiple times.
Read more Four warning signs your persistent cough may not just be a winter cold and those most at risk
GII. 17 is a genotype of norovirus that triggers outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis and is highly infectious.
This variant is overtaking the long-standing dominant GII. 4 genotype and has recently become the most commonly detected type, resulting in a significant surge in cases, reports the Mirror.
GII. 17 isn’t a new variant; it was first identified a few years ago.
It became the predominant strain of norovirus in some regions during the 2014-2015 season, and now it’s making a resurgence this year.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has stated: “This means that people who have already had norovirus this season may catch it again, as having one genotype does not fully protect against the other. However, at present there is no indication that either GII.17 or GII.4 leads to more severe illness.”
NHS England has reported that the surge in cases is putting a strain on hospitals. In an effort to alleviate this pressure, hospitals have issued a ‘please do not visit us’ alert to anyone exhibiting two common symptoms associated with the illness.
The North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust took to Facebook to share a video of an emergency care nurse imploring viewers to stay at home.
She stated: “If you’ve been unlucky enough to have any diarrhoea or vomiting in the last 48 hours, could you just please wait to visit your relatives in hospital. You might feel better, but you could still have the infection to pass it on to your loved ones, thank you.”
In the caption, the hospital added: “Had sickness or diarrhoea? Please don’t visit our hospital wards until you have been free of these symptoms for 48 hours. Help stop the spread of infection this winter to protect your local community, loved ones and healthcare services.”
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
According to the NHS: “Norovirus, also called the winter vomiting bug, is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but it usually gets better in about two days.”
Despite its nickname, you can contract norovirus at any time of year. The primary symptoms of norovirus typically appear suddenly and may include:
feeling sickbeing sick (vomiting)diarrhoea
You may also experience:
a high temperaturea headachetummy painbody aches and painsCan you treat norovirus yourself at home?
If you or your child contracts norovirus, it can typically be treated at home. “You’ll usually start to feel better in two to three days,” advises the NHS.
Diarrhoea and vomiting can generally be managed at home. The most crucial thing is to stay hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Ensure you stay at home and get ample rest.Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash – take small sips if you feel nauseous.Continue breast or bottle feeding your baby – if they’re being sick, try giving small feeds more often than usual.Give babies on formula or solid foods small sips of water between feeds.Eat when you feel able to – it may help to avoid foods that are fatty or spicy.Take paracetamol if you’re uncomfortable – check the leaflet before giving it to your child.Avoid fruit juice or fizzy drinks – they can exacerbate diarrhoea.Don’t dilute baby formula – use it at its usual strength.Don’t give children under 12 medicine to stop diarrhoea.Don’t give aspirin to children under 16.Can a pharmacist assist with norovirus?
Consult a pharmacist if you or your child (aged five years or over) has norovirus and you have signs of dehydration, such as dark, smelly urine or urinating less than usual.
You should also seek medical attention if you’re an older individual, have a weakened immune system, or have other health conditions that heighten your risk of dehydration, or if you need to halt diarrhoea for a few hours. They may suggest oral rehydration powder that you mix with water to create a drink.
How does norovirus spread?
Norovirus is caused by a virus that spreads through faeces. It can easily transmit to others.
You can contract norovirus from:
a high temperaturea headachetummy painbody aches and pains
The GII.17 norovirus is also known as the ‘Kawasaki bug'(Image: Getty )