Millions of Americans are facing a less-than-ideal start to the New Year as norovirus outbreaks surge across the country. The CDC reports a 32% increase in reported outbreaks the week of December 5th compared to the week prior, surpassing numbers seen in recent years. Symptoms of norovirus include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and the highly contagious virus spreads through the 'oral-fecal route,' typically via contaminated hands.
After a busy holiday season spent with friends and family, millions of Americans find themselves starting the New Year spending time with the toilet.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the week of Dec. 5, a 32% increase from the week before. By comparison, numbers from the past three years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during the first week of December.
It’s possible the outbreaks are already starting to ebb. CDC data shows a 20% test positivity rate for norovirus across the Northeast during the week ending on Dec. 14. By the end of the following week, it dropped to 12%. More recent data is not yet available. Since the virus causes excessive diarrhea and vomiting, it can also lead to severe dehydration, especially in young children and older adults. Outbreaks occur throughout the year but are most common from November to April.The virus is typically spread through what doctors call the “oral-fecal route.”
The virus can also be transmitted in a droplet fashion, through vomit. It can also easily be transmitted by an infected person, including those without symptoms, through contaminated food, water, or environmental surfaces. The stomach bug isn’t just ruining cruises — it’s costing lives. Norovirus infections kill about 900 Americans every year, mostly people 65 and older, according to CDC data. They’re also responsible for 465,000 emergency department visits each year, mostly involving young kids.
It’s especially important to remember that alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not a substitute for hand washing and does not work well against norovirus, according to the CDC and medical professionals.
Norovirus Outbreaks CDC Stomach Bug Diarrhea Vomiting Holidays
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