Cases of norovirus (stomach bug) skyrocket in US: What to watch out for
Cases of norovirus, also known as food poisoning or the stomach bug, have been on the rise across the United States. The number of suspected or confirmed outbreaks skyrocketed at the end of 2024, with more than 91 norovirus outbreaks reported by state health departments by the first week of December, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that typically presents with uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. In some cases, it can also cause fever, headache, and body aches. Chad D. Neilsen, MPH, director of Infection Prevention and Control at Nemours Children’s Health in Florida, shared with Fox News Digital that norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the U.S., causing about 20 million cases each year.
Norovirus is responsible for approximately 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths each year in the U.S., with adults over 65 years old being the most affected, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). About one in 15 Americans will get norovirus annually, and one out of 160 children will be hospitalized.
The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted between people through close contact or contaminated surfaces, utensils, or food. Symptoms typically appear within two days of exposure. Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical contributor, emphasized the importance of frequent handwashing, early symptom identification, and isolation when sick to prevent the spread of norovirus.
While there is no specific treatment for norovirus, staying well-hydrated is crucial for recovery. Most people will recover from norovirus within one to three days without any treatment, but severe cases may require medical attention due to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, dizziness when standing, and unusual sleepiness.
Prevention of norovirus involves basic food safety practices such as washing hands, cooking food at recommended temperatures, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding contact with others when sick. The CDC also recommends washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and laundering clothes in hot water to prevent the spread of the virus.
Norovirus outbreaks typically peak between November and April, due to seasonality trends similar to other contagious viruses like the flu. The virus thrives in crowded indoor spaces such as schools, daycares, and cruise ships. Once an outbreak occurs, it can be challenging to control without public health and sanitation expertise.
To effectively combat norovirus, it is recommended to use bleach to clean contaminated surfaces and continue disinfection routines even after recovery, as some individuals may still be contagious. By following these preventive measures, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting norovirus and minimize the impact of outbreaks in their communities.
