People told to ‘stay home’ as illness sweeps UK

People are coming down with nasty illnesses

Kate Lally SEO writer and Mel King Content Editor

11:10, 18 Dec 2025

stock image(Image: Getty)

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is calling on the public to recognise the signs of a rapidly spreading virus. As winter weather has firmly established itself, numerous unpleasant bugs are making their presence felt.

Significant numbers of individuals are falling ill, with thousands occupying hospital beds due to influenza. Seasonal colds and other winter ailments are also in circulation, with UKHSA recommendations stating that anyone displaying any of three key symptoms should remain at home for a minimum of 48 hours.

The primary indicators of norovirus, commonly referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’, include vomiting, nausea (feeling queasy), and diarrhoea. Those affected by the condition may additionally suffer from headaches, bodily aches, abdominal pain, and elevated temperature.

In a recent post on X, UKHSA emphasised: “The virus spreads easily and you should stay home for 48 hours after symptoms stop.”

North of the border, NHS inform similarly advises people to “stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the norovirus symptoms have stopped”, reports the Mirror.

Individuals should also refrain from visiting hospitals, wash hands regularly with soap and water – particularly following toilet use and before food preparation, and understand that alcohol-based hand sanitiser cannot eliminate the virus.

Medical professionals explain that norovirus can persist on surfaces for days or weeks, which represents a key factor in the virus’s swift transmission. Consequently, thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces proves absolutely vital.

The UKHSA recommends using a bleach-based solution (chlorine), and wearing disposable gloves, where possible. The standard advice is to use a 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution (i.e. 1,000 parts per million (ppm)) for surfaces.

If you contract norovirus, it’s advised to stay at home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid preparing food for others until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased, as the virus can be transmitted through food.

It’s also important to wash hands regularly and thoroughly clean, wash or disinfect any contaminated items or surfaces such as clothes, bedding, toilets, taps and door handles.