A surge in norovirus outbreaks has left the US grappling with an unusually high number of stomach bugs this year. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 91 outbreaks were reported in the first week of December, exceeding the previous record set in 2012.
Norovirus typically spreads during the winter months and recedes as temperatures rise, but this season’s uptick has been more severe than usual. In fact, nearly 23% of people tested positive for norovirus at clinical laboratories nationwide by the end of December – significantly higher than the typical peak of 10-15%.
Experts attribute the increase to immunity waning over time, as norovirus levels have been peaking since the pandemic. The lack of population-wide protection due to reduced masking and social distancing during the pandemic has contributed to this trend.
The CDC’s data is an underestimate of real-world norovirus spread, with microbiologist Lee-Ann Jaykus stating that “the numbers are really ish-y.” However, experts believe that the increase in medically attended visits and infections suggests a genuine rise in cases, rather than just increased testing.
To protect yourself during this surge, experts recommend washing your hands frequently, cleaning shared surfaces, and maintaining social distancing from individuals with norovirus. Hand-washing is crucial, as norovirus primarily spreads through contaminated food or surfaces that harbor the virus for weeks.
While a norovirus vaccine is not yet available, scientists are working on developing one using various technologies. However, challenges remain, including creating a vaccine that can protect against most strains and provide long-term protection. A vaccine is likely at least three to five years away, with priority given to vulnerable populations such as babies and older adults.
Source: https://www.vox.com/even-better/393811/norovirus-surge-vomiting-diarrhea-stomach-bug