US Norovirus Cases Double; Experts Warn of Spread

Norovirus cases are on the rise nationwide, with recent data revealing a doubling in positive test results since August. The latest figures show nearly 14% of tests are returning positive for the virus, a significant increase from approximately 7% three months prior. This surge follows a record-breaking season last December, and while cases had previously trended downward, they have begun to climb again.

Several states, including Alabama, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming, are currently reporting the highest numbers of norovirus cases. Emergency department visits related to these illnesses have also seen an upward trend since July. Norovirus, often mistaken for the stomach flu, is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., responsible for a substantial percentage of annual outbreaks.

The most common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, though fever, headaches, and body aches can also occur. Infected individuals typically show symptoms within 12 to 48 hours, with illness usually resolving within one to three days for most healthy adults. Health experts strongly advise rigorous handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds as the most effective preventive measure against norovirus.