Reports of a stomach virus, known as Norovirus, are rising sharply across the United States, triggering concerns among health experts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of outbreaks has already surpassed historical records for December.
A Widespread Problem
During the week of December 5, the CDC recorded 91 outbreaks of Norovirus, compared to 69 outbreaks during the last week of November.
These figures are well above the previous high of 65 outbreaks reported during the same period in earlier years.
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S. It spreads rapidly in enclosed spaces through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, or infected individuals.
This virus is responsible for an estimated 58% of all foodborne illnesses annually in the country.
Symptoms and Vulnerable Groups
Norovirus infections typically cause sudden vomiting and diarrhea, making it highly contagious. Other symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, body aches, headaches, and fever. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last one to three days.
While anyone can contract Norovirus, certain groups are more vulnerable, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Health officials emphasize the importance of preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. Recommendations include:
Frequent and proper handwashing: Use soap and water, as hand sanitizers are ineffective against Norovirus.
Properly cooking seafood and thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables.
Cleaning contaminated surfaces with disinfectants.
Using hot water to wash laundry exposed to the virus.
Although the virus can recur due to its multiple strains, CDC experts note that limited immunity can develop against specific variants, although its duration remains uncertain.
