2025 Norovirus Outbreak: How To Guard Against The New Strain

The UK is experiencing exceptionally high cases of norovirus infections, with hospital admissions more than twice the average for this time of year. The easily spread virus causes unpleasant symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea, which typically last for two to three days. Vulnerable groups are most likely to require hospital treatment, often due to dehydration.


The virus, commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, is particularly virulent at the moment because a new strain, known as the GII.4 genotype, is on the rise. Norovirus 2025  is different to the genotype (GII.7) that spread rapidly earlier in the winter.


Health officials have warned that this means people who have already had norovirus this winter could catch it again.

 

 

What are the symptoms of norovirus?

Norovirus causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, and the first signs usually manifest within 12 to 48 hours following infection. The main symptoms of norovirus include:


  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Stomach ache or cramps

  • Mild fever

  • Muscle aches and pains


For most people, the symptoms are short-lived, lasting between one to three days. However, the virus can live in the body for several weeks after the symptoms have subsided, and some people may be infected without experiencing any signs. For vulnerable groups such as the elderly, very young, or immunocompromised, symptoms can be more severe.

 

How is norovirus spread?

Norovirus is highly contagious, and it can be spread through physical contact with infected people; eating food that has been prepared by an infected person; or by touching contaminated surfaces. It tends to be more prevalent in winter when people spend more time indoors, but transmission can occur at any time of the year. 

 

How can you minimise the risk of infection?

To reduce the risk of catching or spreading norovirus, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. Alcohol gels and sanitisers do not kill norovirus.

 

What should you do if you catch norovirus?

If you become infected, stay at home and do not return to work or school until 48 hours after the symptoms have stopped. You should also avoid visiting GP surgeries, hospitals, or care homes. Wash contaminated clothing or bedding at 60°C, and use bleach-based cleaning products to disinfect contaminated surfaces. 


Most people will recover without medical treatment. However, vomiting and diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so it’s recommended to take frequent sips of water. 

 

 

GPs recommend OTC rehydration solutions

More severe cases of norovirus can occur in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. GPs previously prescribed Dioralyte to manage the risk of dehydration, but now recommend that such patients use over-the-counter (OTC) rehydration solutions.   

 

Are there alternatives to OTC treatments?

OTC treatments can be expensive, but there are more affordable rehydration solutions for families. Diaralyte alternatives include O.R.S Rehydration Tablets, which are specifically recommended by the NHS, and are licensed for use in children over the age of three. If you need treatment for a child under the age of three, seek medical advice first. 


O.R.S hydration salts have been formulated according to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines, and contain electrolytes. These are essential vitamins and minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium that are present in bodily fluids, and can become depleted during acute episodes of vomiting and diarrhoea. 


Electrolyte tablets help to replenish lost salts and minerals much faster than water alone, and also help the body to reabsorb fluids faster and retain them for longer periods. O.R.S hydration solutions for children are available in three fun flavours, including strawberry, blackcurrant and lemon, which encourages children to drink.


The tablets can be bought online or in pharmacies without a prescription, and have a more affordable price point than many alternatives with similar formulations. This makes it easier for low-income families to access affordable and effective treatment for a potentially serious health condition. 

 

What are the risks of dehydration in vulnerable people?

Dehydration is particularly risky for vulnerable groups, because it can deprive the vital organs of the water that is essential for functioning. This can lead to serious complications that will require hospital treatment. 


Giving children or another vulnerable person water alone in an attempt to combat dehydration can make the problem worse, because it will dilute the already low levels of minerals in the body, and make the rehydration process even more difficult. Therefore health professionals recommend that oral rehydration salts are used for the best recovery.