young woman feeling nauseated. (Image: metamorworks via Getty Images)
A nasty virus is rapidly spreading across England, with people with certain symptoms told to self-isolate.
According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), cases have surged by approximately 47% in the first fortnight of 2026.
In response to this spike, the UKHSA has reiterated the importance of good hygiene practices to curb further spread of the virus.
Norovirus cases are predominantly reported among those aged 65 and over, and while activity remains within expected levels, hospital outbreaks are on the rise.
The UKHSA’s recent surveillance data also indicates a decline in flu, COVID-19, and RSV levels in the initial week of the year.
While all winter viruses remain within expected levels for this season, the public is urged to maintain simple preventative measures to ensure this trend persists.
As the behaviour of viruses like flu and norovirus can be unpredictable and fluctuate throughout the season, it’s crucial that people take straightforward steps to minimise their spread. This includes regular hand washing for both respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses like norovirus.
Remember, alcohol gels are ineffective against norovirus, so frequent hand washing with soap and warm water, along with the use of bleach-based cleaning products, can help prevent the spread of infection.
Ensuring indoor spaces are well-ventilated can also reduce the transmission of respiratory infections like flu.
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If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s best to stay home if possible. If you must go out, consider wearing a face covering, especially when visiting anyone who is vulnerable.
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We have seen a notable increase in norovirus cases in recent weeks among those aged 65 years and over, with more hospital outbreaks also being reported. While this is still within expected levels, there are simple steps that people can take to reduce the spread of norovirus and ensure levels don’t rise further.
“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.
“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, don’t 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 to those most vulnerable.”
Flu and RSV vaccines continue to be available. Those most vulnerable to flu are entitled to a free flu jab on the NHS, including everyone over 65, pregnant women, children from the age of 2 years (as of August 31) to school year 11, and those with certain chronic health conditions.
The RSV vaccine is also accessible to those aged 75 to 79, those who turned 80 years old after September 1, 2024, and is also offered to expectant mothers at or beyond the 28-week mark, as the vaccine aids in protecting the newborn baby.
Vaccination offers the best defence against severe illness and hospitalisation for those at higher risk. Preliminary flu vaccine effectiveness data from UKHSA indicates that the flu jab is performing well against the most dominant flu strain this year, so it’s crucial that those eligible still accept the offer and get vaccinated to ensure they are protected for the remainder of the flu season.
Dr Alex Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “It’s encouraging to see that levels of flu and RSV have fallen for another week. But we mustn’t be complacent because our data from previous years tell us that the end of the flu season could still be some months away.
“Respiratory viruses are unpredictable but there are steps people can take to reduce the spread and ensure we continue on this downward trend – including taking up a vaccine if you haven’t yet.
“Vaccine appointments are still available on the NHS national booking system and those most at risk who haven’t yet had their vaccine should make sure they take it up now to ensure they are protected for the remainder of the season.
“RSV vaccination remains open year-round for pregnant women and any older adults aged 75 to 80 who haven’t yet had a dose.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
