Norovirus cases in English hospitals have reached their highest level this winter, 898 patients currently receiving treatment for the disease.
The latest NHS data in England show an increase of 15% compared to 784 cases the previous week.
This marks a significant increase compared to the previous summit of 837 cases recorded in early December.
Current figures are significantly higher than the same period last year, when hospitals treated 688 patients with symptoms of Norovirus.
The very contagious stomach bug is known to cause vomiting and diarrhea
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The wave represents an even more striking increase compared to two years ago, when only 395 patients were hospitalized with the virus.
The very contagious stomach bug, known to cause vomiting and diarrhea, puts additional pressure on hospital resources already stretched.
While cases of norovirus continue to increase, other winter diseases show a drop in English hospitals.
Flu admissions dropped by 21% to 3,019 patients, with 148 in intensive care.
COVID-19 cases also decreased, 995 patients currently receiving treatment.
The cases of VRS in children experienced a slight reduction, to 28 against 29 the previous week.
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This puts additional pressure on hospital resources already stretched
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Despite these improvements, hospitals remain under significant pressure, with an average of 96% of occupied adult beds.
The NHS in England indicated that hospitals took care of a total of 97,567 patients per day.
Adding to the strain, 13,426 patients who are medically adapted to the exit remain in the hospital every day, occupying more than one beds available in seven.
Professor Julian Redhead, National Clinical Director of the NHS for urgent and emergency care, said he was concerned about the situation.
“This is the good news that the number of patients in the hospital with Covid and the flu has continued to fall last week, but the worrying increase in norovirus cases – now to their highest level this winter this winter – means that there is no relaxation for NHS staff, “he said.
He noted that hospitals remain close to their capacity, with “almost a fifth of the beds filled due to seasonal viruses and delayed discharges in circles such as social and community care”.
Professor Rouge urged the public to use emergency services only if necessary.
“The public can help us by continuing to call 999 or to visit A&E in a potentially fatal emergency or to use NHS 111 for other conditions.
“With the upper levels that usually norovirus, it is important to remember to frequently wash your hands with soap and water, and avoid close contact with others if you have symptoms.
“If you have not yet had your boost coche and you are eligible, make sure you don’t miss and go to a service without an appointment today or tomorrow.”
The Secretary of Health, Wes Street, recognized the current challenges facing hospitals.
“The broken NHS system that we have inherited said that too many people have undergone unacceptable healthcare standards this winter, but we are firmly in our commitment to reverse the part,” he said.