DUBLIN — Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued an urgent public health warning as the “winter vomiting bug” (norovirus) and seasonal influenza reach high levels of circulation across the country. On Sunday, January 18, 2026, health officials confirmed that the dual surge of gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses is exerting significant pressure on emergency departments and community care services.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) noted that while flu cases saw a seasonal peak in late December, the virus remains “widely circulating” across all regions. This coincides with a spike in norovirus cases that officials warn is likely to persist throughout the remainder of the winter season.
The “Winter Vomiting Bug” Peak
Norovirus is currently circulating at unusually high levels in the community. Known for its extreme transmissibility, the virus thrives in closed environments such as schools, hospitals, and nursing homes.
- Highly Infectious: The bug spreads through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and aerosolized particles.
- Resistant to Sanitizer: Public health experts emphasize that alcohol-based hand gels do not kill norovirus. Thorough handwashing with soap and warm water remains the only effective defense.
- Duration: While symptoms—sudden vomiting and diarrhea—are typically short-lived (2–3 days), they are debilitating and can lead to severe dehydration in vulnerable groups.
Flu and Respiratory Strain
The flu season has moved into a “medium-to-high” activity phase. The HPSC reported that Influenza A(H3N2) is the predominant strain this year, with a notable impact on those aged 65 and older.
| Virus | Current Status | Primary Symptoms |
| Norovirus | High Levels | Sudden vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps. |
| Influenza | Widely Circulating | High fever, muscle aches, extreme fatigue. |
| RSV | Mixed Trends | Wheezing, coughing (mostly in children). |
“The health service is delivering a comprehensive response,” stated the Department of Health. To manage the surge, the HSE has added 20,000 additional clinical hours for respiratory care and expanded GP out-of-hours services through late January to redirect patients away from overcrowded Emergency Departments (EDs).
The “48-Hour Rule” and Public Guidance
To prevent the collapse of essential services, the HSE is urging the public to adhere to a strict “digital-first” approach for non-emergency care.
- Stay Home: If you have symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea, you must stay away from work or school for at least 48 hours after symptoms have fully passed.
- Avoid Hospitals: Do not visit hospitals or care homes if you are unwell. Bringing norovirus into a clinical setting can lead to ward closures and risk the lives of vulnerable patients.
- Seek Advice Remotely: Use the HSE’s “Under the Weather” portal or consult your pharmacist or GP by phone rather than presenting in person at an ED.
- Hydration is Key: Treatment for most healthy adults involves rest and small, frequent sips of clear fluids or oral rehydration salts.
“Your actions make a difference,” a HPSC spokesperson noted. “By staying home when sick, you protect the frontline staff who are currently managing record-breaking demand.”
