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Stomach Bug Surges: Norovirus Cases Double Before Holidays
26 Nov
Summary
- Norovirus cases have significantly increased, with nearly 14% of tests positive recently.
- This is more than double the positivity rate observed earlier this year.
- Outbreaks are common between November and April, peaking in winter.
Cases of norovirus, commonly known as the stomach bug, have significantly increased across the United States in recent weeks. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that nearly 14% of tests for the illness were positive in the week ending November 15th. This represents more than double the positivity rate recorded in August, when the year's lowest rates were observed.
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness and stomach-related symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea in the U.S. The highly contagious virus typically causes symptoms lasting one to three days. Millions are affected annually, leading to over 100,000 hospitalizations and approximately 900 deaths each year.
Outbreaks of norovirus are historically most frequent between November and April, with a major surge observed last winter. Recent incidents include a school closure in Michigan for deep cleaning and nearly 100 passengers sickened on a cruise ship in October. Public health officials emphasize frequent hand washing and safe food handling to prevent spread.
