Ukhsa warns of a possible second wave of norovirus in the UK, with an increase in cases and change in circulating strains, impacting hospitals and homes of elderly
UK health officials (UK) gave the alarm this week about a possible second wave of noroviruses, with new data showing a change in circulating strains. The latest information from the UK Sanitary Safety Agency (UKHSA), released by the Xinhua Agency, show that norovirus cases are increasing throughout the country, with cases at the highest levels since the beginning of reports in 2014.
The cases of the virus were almost 30% higher between February 3 and 16 than in the previous fortnight, according to Ukhsa, and more than double the average of five seasons.
The impact is particularly severe in hospitals and nursing homes, with higher cases among people aged 65 or older, according to the health agency.
The cases usually begin to decrease this time of year, as the weather gets warmer, but UKHSA says it is too early to conclude whether Norovirus has reached the peak this season.
The latest data also show a change in circulating strains, with the increase in the number of cases this season associated with the new GII genotype.17. Meanwhile, the GII genotype.4 is also increasing.
Common symptoms of norovirus infection include vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. The virus can sometimes cause low fever or chills, headache and muscle aches. These symptoms usually start one or two days after infection.
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2025/02/28/norovirus-cresce-no-reino-unido-o-que-esperar-agora/
