Across the US, norovirus cases surge; here's how to prevent the stomach illness.

The number of cases of norovirus, commonly referred to as food poisoning or the stomach bug, has increased in the United States.

Over 91 norovirus outbreaks were reported by state health departments by the first week of December in 2024, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some cases of norovirus may present with symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, in addition to the typical onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

According to Chad D. Neilsen, MPH, the director of Infection Prevention and Control at Nemours Children's Health in Florida, norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the U.S., resulting in approximately 20 million cases annually.

In the U.S., approximately 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths occur annually due to norovirus, primarily affecting adults aged 65 and above, as per the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID).

Annually, one in 15 Americans will contract norovirus, while one out of 160 children will require hospitalization.

Spread and symptoms

Nielsen pointed out that individuals of any age can contract the virus and display symptoms within two days.

The doctor cautioned that norovirus is highly contagious and is typically transmitted through close contact or contaminated surfaces, utensils, or foods.

"There is no treatment except to stay well-hydrated."

Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical contributor at Planet Chronicle, stated that norovirus is easily transmitted through food and handling.

He stated that it is highly contagious and difficult to prevent except through regular handwashing, early identification of symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, low-grade fever), and self-isolation when sick.

"The doctor stated that the treatment is to stay hydrated and that it typically lasts for about 3 days."

According to Neilsen, while most individuals recover from norovirus in one to three days without treatment, some may experience severe symptoms such as dehydration, which may necessitate medical attention.

According to the CDC, symptoms of dehydration include decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, dizziness when standing, crying with few or no tears, and unusual sleepiness or fuzziness.

If norovirus occurs, the agency advises consuming lots of fluids to avoid dehydration and to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Prevention of norovirus

Steps to prevent foodborne illness, including norovirus, are similar, according to Neilsen.

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He advised to wash hands, cook food thoroughly at recommended temperatures, clean and disinfect surfaces properly, and avoid contact with others if sick.

The CDC advises washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and using hot water to wash laundry if possible.

Since 2023, cases in the U.S. have been increasing, yet there is no definitive research on the causes.

The peak season for norovirus is from November to April, according to Neilsen, possibly due to similar seasonality trends as other contagious viruses, such as the flu.

"Norovirus thrives in environments like schools, daycares and cruise ships due to the combination of indoor spaces, close contact, and crowding," he stated.

"Controlling an outbreak is difficult without the expertise of public health and sanitation."

Nielsen advised that bleach should be used to clean surfaces contaminated with norovirus, as it can be challenging to eliminate.

Experts advise caution and continued disinfection after recovery, as some people may still be contagious.