Norovirus Cases Surge in UK and US

Norovirus cases have surged across both the UK and the US, reaching record highs with hospitals grappling under pressure. In England, an average of 1,160 hospital beds daily were occupied by norovirus patients, marking a 22% increase from the previous week, as the highly contagious virus spreads rapidly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children. The NHS has described the situation as a 'storm of norovirus infections,' exacerbated by the continuation of winter illnesses including flu, COVID-19, and RSV. In the US, while cases have slightly declined from December peaks, they remain significantly high, with a norovirus positivity rate of 21% reported in early February. Efforts to contain the virus emphasize handwashing with soap and water, as alcohol-based sanitizers are ineffective against it. Meanwhile, vaccine development is underway, with trials exploring different methodologies, including mRNA technology used in COVID vaccines, offering a potential long-term solution.