In its latest weekly update, the UKHSA said norovirus outbreaks in hospitals continue, with the highest number of cases seen in those aged 65 years and over.

Overall, norovirus laboratory reports between weeks 7 and 8 of 2026 (9 February 2026 to 22 February 2026) were 22.4% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period

The number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2025/2026 season is 11.4% lower than the 5-season average.

Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: ‘While norovirus cases remain high, they are now at expected levels for this time of year. We continue to see many outbreaks in hospital settings and the highest number of cases among older people.'

Respiratory virus cases remain low this week and while there are small increases in common cold viruses such as adenovirus, levels are as expected for this time of year.

Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: ‘It's encouraging to see respiratory virus cases, such as flu and RSV, have fallen again for another week, which is a really positive signal that we are nearing the end of the winter virus season, though we will continue to monitor closely.'