Doctors at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital are warning Islanders to take extra precautions due to a predicted rise in norovirus cases. There have been six confirmed cases on the island so far, but hospital officials expect more as the illness typically appears in February or March.
“We’ve seen an increase in cases already this year,” said Dr. Ellen McMahon, the hospital’s in-house norovirus expert. “Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, often accompanied by headache, fever, chills, and muscle aches.”
Antibiotics can treat norovirus, but most people recover on their own within a few days. The hospital is encouraging people to stay hydrated, rest, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Preventative measures include frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially before and after eating, as well as proper hygiene practices like changing diapers and handling dirty clothes.
Norovirus is not unique to Martha’s Vineyard, but the island has seen an increase in cases compared to other parts of Massachusetts. The hospital is advising people to take precautions and be aware of the symptoms, which can resemble those of a common stomach bug but often involve more severe vomiting and diarrhea.
Source: https://www.mvtimes.com/2025/01/16/island-doctors-warn-norovirus-uptick