The UK Health Security Agency has issued fresh guidance as seasonal cases rise, listing six key symptoms and the 48-hour rule
A significant health warning has been issued to the British public due to a nasty bug currently making its rounds across the UK. Those experiencing symptoms of the illness are being advised to ‘stay at home’ and adhere to a ’48 hour rule’.
They’re also being urged to avoid visiting crowded areas such as schools, offices, and hospitals. The bug, described by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as “unpleasant for everyone”, is responsible for a high number of cases so far this month.
According to recent statistics, norovirus activity in the UK has seen a significant increase at the beginning of 2026. Laboratory reports indicate a 47% rise in the first two weeks of January compared to late December 2025.
This has resulted in more outbreaks in hospitals, although overall levels remain within typical seasonal ranges for now. Consequently, people are being encouraged to maintain vigilance about hygiene.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a substantial surge in cases, particularly among the elderly, leading to more hospital outbreaks. The increase in norovirus, along with other winter viruses, is placing additional pressure on hospitals, reports the Mirror.
What does the ‘stay at home’ alert entail?
In a recent update, the UKHSA provided guidance for individuals who have contracted norovirus. It stated: “Diarrhoea and vomiting bugs, like norovirus, are unpleasant for everyone. If you come down with a case, here is what you can do to reduce the spread.”
It cautions that the diarrhoea and vomiting bug spreads rapidly, urging anyone affected to take straightforward precautions to prevent transmission. Six key symptoms are highlighted, including nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, elevated temperature, headache and aching limbs.
Providing additional advice, the UKHSA stated: “Stay at home for 48 hours after your symptoms clear.” Regular handwashing with soap and warm water is strongly recommended. To minimise the risk of spreading infection within your home, any contaminated bedding and clothing should be laundered at 60 degrees.
Regarding what to avoid, the UKHSA emphasises staying away from workplaces, care homes, schools and hospitals. It also advises against cooking for others whilst infected.
Norovirus symptoms come on fast and strong, often without much notice. You might experience severe and repeated vomiting. Along with that, you could have many watery bowel movements, which makes things worse. It’s also common to feel abdominal cramps, headaches, and sore muscles.
The mix of vomiting and diarrhoea can quickly drain your body of fluids, leading to dizziness, tiredness, and a dry mouth, which can be risky. This virus spreads easily, interrupting everyday life and possibly leading to outbreaks in neighbourhoods.
What does the NHS say?
The NHS states: “Diarrhoea and vomiting are common in adults, children and babies. They’re often caused by a stomach bug and should stop in a few days. The advice is the same if you have diarrhoea and vomiting together or separately… Diarrhoea and vomiting can usually be treated at home. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.”
For both adults and children, diarrhoea typically resolves within five to seven days, whilst vomiting generally subsides within one to two days. The NHS also advises remaining off school or work until at least 48 hours have passed since your last episode of sickness or diarrhoea.
“If you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better,” it adds.
What you should do:
- stay at home and get plenty of rest
- drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash – take small sips if you feel sick
- carry on 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 in discomfort – check the leaflet before giving it to your child
How can you avoid spreading an infection?
- wash your hands with soap and water frequently
- wash any clothing or bedding that has poo or vomit on it separately on a hot wash
- clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps, surfaces and door handles every day
- do not prepare food for other people, if possible
- do not share towels, flannels, cutlery or utensils
- do not use a swimming pool until at least 48 hours after your symptoms stop
When should you speak to a pharmacist?
- you or your child (over five years) have signs of dehydration, such as dark, smelly pee or peeing less than usual
- you’re an older person, have a weakened immune system, or have other health conditions that increase your risk of dehydration
- you need to stop diarrhoea for a few hours
