Norovirus cases are on the rise in the U.S. Recently, nearly 14% of tests for this pesky virus came back positive, according to the CDC. In one week alone, over 2,700 tests were conducted, revealing around 380 cases. This spike is significant—just a few months earlier, the positivity rate was about 6.5%.
Test positivity can fluctuate based on how many tests are done, making it an imperfect measure. However, it helps keep track of how many illnesses are circulating at any given time.
Norovirus, often referred to as the stomach bug or stomach flu, is the top cause of vomiting and diarrhea in the country. It’s extremely contagious and leads to symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Most individuals feel unwell for one to three days.
Each year, millions catch norovirus, with around 2,500 outbreaks reported in the U.S. This illness results in over 100,000 hospitalizations and about 900 deaths annually. Older adults and young children are especially vulnerable.
Historically, norovirus outbreaks peak between November and April. Last winter, for instance, there was a significant surge with positivity rates exceeding 25%. Just this month, a middle school in Michigan had to close for a day after many students reported feeling sick.
Prevention is key. Regular handwashing, safe food handling, and frequent surface cleaning can make a big difference. It’s also important to remember that the virus can still spread even after symptoms fade, so maintain these safety measures for at least two days after feeling better.
For more details on norovirus and its impact, visit the CDC’s official page.
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Health, Norovirus
