A highly contagious digestive virus known as norovirus is spreading rapidly in the Bay Area this winter, according to health experts. Also known as the “stomach bug” or “winter vomiting disease,” norovirus causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
While norovirus typically peaks during the winter months, this season has seen more cases than in recent years and nationwide. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 495 outbreaks reported between August and December last year, a significant increase from 363 in 2023.
The Bay Area is seeing a spike in norovirus cases, with wastewater tracking programs detecting high levels of the virus at treatment plants across the region. One plant in San Francisco showed a 458% increase in norovirus detection on December 28 compared to the same day last year.
Health experts warn that norovirus can be difficult to contain due to its contagious nature and ability to survive on surfaces and in food for extended periods. “It’s a really tenacious virus,” says Dean Winslow, a professor at Stanford. “You need to use regular handwashing rather than hand sanitizers, especially after touching communal surfaces or before preparing food.”
The CDC reports that 900 people die from norovirus nationwide each year, mostly those over 65. Most people recover within one to three days, but can spread the virus while they have symptoms and two days later.
To prevent the spread of norovirus, experts recommend regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after touching communal surfaces or before preparing food.
Source: https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/stomach-bug-cases-surging-bay-area-spike-20034685.php