Reports indicate infections are around 47% higher than in December, raising concerns among health officials about continued transmission through winter.
The illness behind the surge is norovirus, commonly referred to as the winter vomiting bug.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the virus is affecting people of all ages, but older adults are experiencing the most severe impact.
UKHSA has described the illness as “unpleasant for everyone,” especially due to the intensity of symptoms.

Symptoms of norovirus can include: