*UPDATE* : Weekly Winter Briefing: 09.03.2023

Norovirus surveillance up until end of week 8:

Summary:

• In weeks 7 and 8 laboratory reports of norovirus were 77% higher than the 5-season average pre-COVID-19 (2014/2015 to 2018/2019) with the highest rates of reporting in those over 65 and also in the under 5 age group.
• The number of reported enteric virus (EV) outbreaks (all suspected or confirmed as norovirus) remained below pre-pandemic levels during weeks 7 and 8, with reports 31% lower than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period prior to the pandemic.
• The majority of EV outbreaks in weeks 7 and 8 were reported in care home settings, with the highest number of outbreaks reported this season to date during this period.
• If anyone is concerned about their symptoms, contact NHS 111 or talk to their GP by phone or visit the NHS norovirus webpage for more information but please try not to visit healthcare premises if you have symptoms.
• Learn more about norovirus in our blog article.

Dr Lesley Larkin, Surveillance Lead, Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety Division at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

“While most outbreaks of norovirus continue to be reported in care homes, outbreaks in educational settings have returned to pre-pandemic levels in recent weeks and are particularly affecting children in early years educational settings. Norovirus levels continue to be very high and most reported cases are in the over 65s.

“Young children and older adults are at greater risk of developing dehydration while unwell with norovirus. Dehydration can result in hospitalisation so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids when unwell and contact NHS 111 or your GP surgery if you need advice. Please do take care when visiting hospitals and care homes and remember to wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water often.  Do not visit these settings while unwell with norovirus symptoms or until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

"Norovirus is very infectious but there are things we can do to stop the spread. Hand gels do not kill norovirus so handwashing with soap and warm water is best. If you or your child get the virus you should not return to work (particularly if you work with vulnerable people or food) or send your children back to school until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Using bleach-based products to clean contaminated surfaces will help stop the virus spreading."