A surge in cases of a stomach bug is being reported in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 91 outbreaks of norovirus during the week of Dec. 5, an increase from the previous week’s 69 outbreaks.
Norovirus, a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US, is responsible for 58% of such infections each year. The virus spreads easily and can be spread through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, body ache, headache, and fever. Illness caused by norovirus typically starts suddenly, with symptoms developing within 12-48 hours after exposure. Most people recover fully in one to three days, but the virus causes significant illnesses each year, resulting in an estimated 900 deaths, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 465,000 emergency department visits.
Those most at risk from norovirus include young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. There is no medication to treat the virus, but rehydration through drinking water and other liquids can help alleviate symptoms.
To protect yourself, frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals is recommended. Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help prevent the spread of norovirus during peak winter season.
Source: https://www.syracuse.com/us-news/2024/12/norovirus-is-back-in-full-force-with-us-cases-of-stomach-virus-surging.html