Boston, Massachusetts – Cases of norovirus are spiking in the United States, in line with seasonal patterns, as per the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The recent CDC data shows that in the week ending February 17, over 12% of tests for norovirus returned positive results, marking an increase from the previous week’s 11.5%. The Northeastern region has been particularly hard hit, with more than 13% of tests coming back positive, a trend observed since late January.
Although the current positivity rates are lower compared to the same point last season, when around 15% of tests were positive, both nationally and in the Northeast.
Norovirus outbreaks typically peak in the late fall, winter, and early spring, according to CDC experts. The virus is identified as the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis or “stomach bug” in the US, causing millions of illnesses annually, especially in close quarters like nursing homes, daycares, and cruise ships.
Transmission of norovirus occurs through direct contact with an infected individual, consumption of contaminated food or liquids, or touching surfaces that carry the virus and then touching the face. The CDC warns that even after symptoms disappear, an infected person can still spread norovirus for two weeks or longer.
Common symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. While there is no specific treatment for the virus, medical professionals recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. The CDC advises individuals to practice proper handwashing, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cook shellfish properly to prevent illness.
In January, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a warning against the consumption of certain oysters from Baja California and Mexico due to potential norovirus contamination. Similarly, in December, a sushi restaurant in North Carolina was linked to over 200 suspected cases of norovirus.
The increase in norovirus cases serves as a reminder of the importance of practicing good hygiene and food safety measures to prevent the spread of the highly contagious virus. As the numbers continue to rise, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from norovirus infection.