The Winter Vomiting Virus is making its presence known again in England, warn experts. NHS England reports a significant rise in hospitalisations for diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms, hitting approximately 350 people daily last week, compared to 126 during the same period last year.

Norovirus, highly contagious, spreads through contact with infected individuals and contaminated surfaces. The symptoms include sudden projectile vomiting, diarrhoea, high temperature, stomach pains, and aching limbs. While many individuals recover without the need for hospital care, some may face severe illness.

Preventative measures involve frequent handwashing with soap and water, as alcohol hand gels have been proven as ineffective against norovirus. Cleaning contaminated surfaces with a bleach solution is recommended.

In addition to norovirus, NHS England notes a rise in cases of other seasonal viruses. Daily averages indicate over 150 beds filled with flu patients, seven in critical care, 131 children hospitalised with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and around 46,000 NHS England staff absent due to illness, with some 1,715 attributed to Covid.

NHS national medical director Prof Sir Stephen Powis emphasizes the strain on hospitals and staff, urging the public to use emergency services appropriately and get vaccinated against Covid and flu if eligible.