The British public has been issued a major health alert over a nasty bug currently sweeping across the UK. People who are suffering from symptoms of the illness are being told to 'stay at home' and to follow a '48 hour rule'.

They are also being asked to avoid visiting crowded places, such as schools, offices, and hospitals. The bug, which the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says is "unpleasant for everyone", is currently causing a high number of cases so far this month.

According to the latest figures, norovirus activity is rising a lot in the UK at the start of 2026. Lab reports show a 47% increase in the first two weeks of January compared to late

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December 2025. This has led to more outbreaks in hospitals, but overall levels are still within the usual seasonal ranges for now. Because of this, people are being urged to stay vigilant about hygiene.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced a significant increase in cases, especially among older people, and there are more outbreaks in hospitals as well. The rise in norovirus, along with other winter viruses, is putting a strain on hospitals.

In a new update on X, the UKHSA issued guidance for people who have contracted norovirus. It said: "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 warns that the diarrhoea and vomiting bug can spread easily, and asks anyone infected to follow simple steps to avoid passing it on to others. It lists the six symptoms to be aware of, including feeling sick, diarrhoea, being sick, high temperature, headache and aching arms and legs.

Issuing further guidance on what to do, the UKHSA added: "Stay at home for 48 hours after your symptoms clear." It also recommends washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water. To avoid possibly spreading it to others in your household, it says any soiled bedding and clothes should also be washed at 60 degrees.

In terms of what people should not do, the UKHSA stresses avoiding going into work, or visiting care homes, schools and hospitals. It also advises against preparing food for others.

The NHS says: "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."

In adults and children diarrhoea usually stops within five to seven days and vomiting usually stops in one or two days. The NHS also recommends staying off school or work until you've not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 48 hours days.

"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.

• 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

• 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