Norovirus hospital admissions soar 57% in a week as NHS trusts declare critical incidents
NHS hospitals battle surge in norovirus cases as critical incidents declared
- NHS hospitals are facing a surge in cases due to a combination of flu, norovirus, and other winter viruses, leading to significant pressures.
- Norovirus cases in hospitals have soared by 57 per cent in a week, with 567 beds filled daily last week, marking the highest level this winter.
- Several NHS trusts, including those in Kent, Sussex, and the Midlands, have declared critical incidents, resulting in cancelled operations and severe A&E delays.
- Patients are experiencing 'dreadful' waiting times, with some left in waiting rooms and corridors for days, and up to two days for a bed.
- December A&E data revealed 151,724 patients waited over 12 hours, and only 73.8 per cent were seen within four hours, falling short of the 78 per cent target for March 2026.