The US is experiencing a severe outbreak of norovirus, the stomach flu, reaching its highest levels in over a decade. The highly contagious virus is responsible for a significant number of foodborne illnesses and hospitalizations annually.
A severe outbreak of norovirus, the stomach flu , is surging across the United States. It has reached its highest levels for this time of year in over a decade, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ). Norovirus, the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., is a highly contagious virus responsible for nearly 58 percent of foodborne infections annually, according to the CDC .
A tiny dose of just 10 viral particles can make a person ill, making it one of the most easily transmissible pathogens. In addition, there are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the U.S. The infection manifests suddenly, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, headaches, body aches, and fever. While most people recover within one to three days, the virus takes a significant toll, leading to an estimated 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths annually in the U.S., particularly among older adults and young children. According to the CDC, during the week of December 5 alone, 91 outbreaks were reported—an alarming increase from the 69 recorded in late November. This rise surpasses previous seasonal records, which topped out at 65 outbreaks during the same period in recent years.This marks the largest number of cases during this period since at least 2012. This data, sourced from only 15 states, also suggests prevalence may be even higher.Outbreaks typically occur from November to April, peaking in winter months, and are often seen in high-density settings like cruise ships, nursing homes, jails, and schools. However, experts attribute this spike partly to more states participating in the monitoring program and increased social interactions after years of pandemic restrictions. Norovirus spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or through contaminated food, water, and surfaces
Norovirus Stomach Flu Outbreak CDC Contagious Disease
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