Winter Viruses Surge in UK: Norovirus, Adenovirus & Rhinovirus Alert
Health experts are reporting a widespread surge in winter viruses across Britain, including norovirus, adenovirus, and rhinovirus. While influenza cases, which reached record levels earlier this season, have begun to decline, the situation remains concerning.
Triple-Infection Threat
Researchers at the University of East Anglia suggest that the decrease in influenza cases may increase individuals’ susceptibility to other viruses, potentially leading to co-infection with multiple viruses simultaneously. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicates that norovirus cases in hospitals have reached unprecedented levels, with over 1,000 beds occupied daily, raising fears of a second wave of infection despite a recent decrease in overall cases.
Why are Viruses Spreading Now?
Experts confirm that the circulation of multiple viruses during winter is common, particularly with seasonal immune suppression. Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious disease expert, explains that being infected with more than one virus at a time can worsen symptoms, as the infections interact and increase the burden on the respiratory and digestive systems. The current most concerning combination is norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhea; adenovirus, which affects the respiratory system and eyes; and rhinovirus, a common cause of the common cold.
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms include cough, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and a mild fever, in addition to gastrointestinal disturbances in some cases. Norovirus is highly infectious and spreads easily through contaminated surfaces and hands, so experts recommend frequent handwashing and surface disinfection.
How to Protect Yourself
You can protect yourself by washing your hands with soap and water, ventilating indoor spaces, avoiding close contact when feeling unwell, and wearing a mask in crowded areas. Staying home when sick is also advised. Health authorities emphasize the importance of influenza and RSV vaccinations for those most vulnerable to complications.
The UKHSA’s latest weekly winter surveillance report, updated , shows that while norovirus cases remain high, they have stabilized. Cases of respiratory viruses like flu and RSV continue to fall. Despite the stabilization, outbreaks in hospitals remain high, reinforcing the need for preventative measures.
The current norovirus season is being driven by the GII.17 genotype, though recent data indicates a rise in the more common GII.4 strain. As of mid-February 2026, GII.17 accounts for 59% of cases, down from 76% in November, while GII.4 now represents 29% of cases, up from 10% three months prior. This shift in dominant strains highlights the evolving nature of the virus and the importance of continued surveillance.
Between weeks 6 and 7 of 2026 ( to ), laboratory reports of norovirus were 37.6% higher than the five-season average for the same two-week period. Rotavirus activity was also elevated, with a 31% increase.
Health officials continue to urge the public to practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water, and the use of bleach-based products for cleaning surfaces, as alcohol gels are ineffective against norovirus. For respiratory viruses, maintaining good ventilation in indoor spaces and considering mask-wearing in crowded settings are recommended. Individuals experiencing symptoms are advised to stay home to prevent further spread, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and young babies.
The Daily Mail reported on , that the UK is facing a “triple threat” of norovirus, adenovirus and rhinovirus, which could further strain the already stretched National Health Service (NHS).