BRITS have been told not to go A&E as cases of a winter bug explode – and a “tidal wave” of flu swamps the NHS.
Public health experts in Northamptonshire warned those with norovirus to stay at home – amid fears of a surge in the highly transmittable infection in the county.
They said the bug could rip through hospitals where patients are already unwell with other illnesses, such as flu.
It comes as the usual spike in norovirus cases has “begun early” this year, according to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Medical director at the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, Hermant Nemade, said: “It can create problems in hospitals if [norovirus] is brought into an environment where patients are already unwell through other medical conditions.
“Because the virus is very infectious, it means we need to take additional precautions such as enhanced cleaning and reduced movement on affected wards, which can lead to restrictions in visiting.”
Sally Burns, the director of public health on West Northamptonshire Council, added: “It’s really important that you keep away from hospital and other healthcare settings, such as GP practices, as most people can manage their symptoms at home without any medical intervention.”
Norovirus is a a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
The NHS advises those who have the virus to rest and hydrate with fluids.
Concerns about a surge in norovirus cases come after a “tidal wave” of flu – in which one in four tests on Brits of all ages tested positive, according to the UKHSA).
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