Norovirus Outbreak: U.S. Is Reporting The Highest Number Of Cases In A Decade — Here’s What To Know

Norovirus symptoms

The symptoms of norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, headaches, body aches, and fever. The average person recovers from the virus in one to three days. However, the virus can be more serious in other cases, leading to hospitalization or death. About 109,000 people, including adults and children, are hospitalized from the norovirus every year. The virus also causes about 900 deaths in the U.S. annually, per Newsweek.

Cases of norovirus are surging

Early in December, 91 norovirus outbreaks were reported. That showed a significant increase from late November, where 69 cases were recorded. During the same time in recent years, the highest total reported was 65 cases. The latest numbers mark the high total since 2012.

Norovirus cases are normally seen from the months of November to April, but the highest numbers are recorded during the winter. The virus, which can be spread through contact with infected individuals, is especially prevalent in cruise ships, nursing homes, jails, and schools. Norovirus can also be spread through contaminated food and water, shared utensils or infected surfaces.

Who is at risk the most for norovirus?

Young children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems are at high risk of getting infected. While Moderna is still working on a vaccine for the norovirus, experts are sharing advice to help people reduce the likelihood of getting infected. The CDC, for example, urges individuals to wash their hands as much as possible with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.