Norovirus: Seven things to know about ‘highly contagious’ virus surging in the U.S.

Government data has revealed that norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug, is rapidly spreading across parts of the United States this winter.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 91 outbreaks during the first week of December, a sharp increase from 69 outbreaks recorded in the last week of November. In contrast, previous years saw a maximum of 65 outbreaks during the first week of December.

According to CBS News, norovirus infections typically cause sudden vomiting and diarrhoea with outbreaks common in crowded settings such as cruise ships, nursing homes, jails, schools, and other close-contact environments. 

This month, hundreds of passengers across three cruise ships fell ill, contributing to 14 cruise-related norovirus outbreaks this year, the highest monthly total recorded in 2024.

On land, cases are also increasing. The Minnesota Department of Health recently reported 40 cases, which is double the average for December, according to CBS News Minnesota.

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In this article, Tribune Online highlights seven things you need to know about norovirus.

1. Leading Cause of Foodborne Illness

Norovirus accounts for 58% of foodborne infections in the United States causing 19 to 21 million illnesses annually. There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the country. 

2. Highly Contagious

Norovirus can infect someone with just 10 viral particles. It spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person, sharing utensils, or consuming contaminated food, water, or touching infected surfaces.

3. Symptoms and Duration

Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, body aches, headache, and fever. Symptoms appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and usually resolve within one to three days.

4. Peak Season and Vulnerable Groups

Outbreaks are most common from November to April. Young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.

5. Serious Health Impacts

Norovirus causes approximately 900 deaths, 109,000 hospitalisations, and 465,000 emergency visits annually in the U.S., primarily affecting older adults and young children.

6. No Cure Yet

There is no medication to treat norovirus yet. However, staying hydrated is crucial, and medical attention should be sought for severe dehydration, particularly in children.

7. Preventative Measures

Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, avoiding food preparation when symptomatic, and disinfecting surfaces are crucial to preventing the spread of the virus.

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