Second Norovirus Strain Symptoms Raising Concerns Across the UK
Health experts in the UK have issued warnings about the emergence of a new strain of norovirus, leading to concerns that individuals who have already been affected by the virus this season may face a second bout of illness. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted that having been infected with one type of norovirus does not offer complete protection against other strains. Recent laboratory data has revealed a significant increase in cases of the newly identified GII.17 genotype of norovirus during this winter period, alongside a resurgence of the older GII.4 variant. While the GII.17 genotype remains predominant, accounting for 59% of cases, it was responsible for 76% of cases in November. Conversely, the GII.4 strain now represents 29% of cases, up from 10% three months ago. UKHSA officials have clarified that there is no evidence suggesting that either the GII.17 or GII.4 strains result in more severe illness, although it remains uncertain if the peak of norovirus cases for the season has been reached. Both GII.17 and GII.4 strains cause acute gastroenteritis, with comparable symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and fatigue. However, there are variations in severity and impact on different age groups between the two strains.
The GII.17 strain is associated with more severe outbreaks, particularly affecting older adults, and tends to have a longer duration of illness compared to other norovirus variants. On the other hand, the GII.4 strain, being the most widespread globally, undergoes frequent mutations leading to the emergence of new epidemic versions. It is known to impact all age groups, causing significant outbreaks especially in healthcare facilities and cruise ships. Both strains are highly contagious, causing acute gastroenteritis lasting between 12 to 72 hours, with dehydration being the most critical complication. As a precautionary measure, Amy Douglas, the lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, advised individuals experiencing symptoms of norovirus to refrain from visiting hospitals, care homes, or returning to work, school, or nursery until at least 48 hours after the cessation of symptoms. Furthermore, it is essential to avoid preparing food for others during this period as the virus can still be transmitted. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol-based hand gels are ineffective against norovirus; therefore, thorough handwashing using warm, soapy water and disinfection of surfaces with bleach-based products are recommended to prevent the spread of infections.
Recent data from NHS England indicates that hospital cases of norovirus continue to remain at record levels, with an average of 1,134 patients admitted per day compared to 1,160 in the previous week. This figure represents a 141% increase from the same period last year. Public awareness about norovirus is also on the rise, as visits to the NHS.uk webpage related to norovirus have escalated by 40% in the past week. The UKHSA laboratory data revealed a 29.4% surge in confirmed cases during the two-week period from February 3 to 16 compared to the preceding fortnight, exceeding the five-season average for the same period. For each reported case in national data, an estimated 288 cases occur within the community, suggesting a projected three million cases throughout the UK. As the UK grapples with the dual challenge of multiple norovirus strains circulating simultaneously, individuals are urged to practice stringent hygiene measures and follow guidelines to mitigate the spread of this highly contagious virus.
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The health sector is closely monitoring the evolving situation of norovirus strains in the UK, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preventive measures to combat the spread of this contagious virus.