Highly Contagious Norovirus Spreads in the U.S.

Norovirus Spreads in the U.S: The United States is currently experiencing a surge in cases of norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea¹²³⁴⁵. This article provides an in-depth look at the current situation, including the regions most affected, symptoms to watch out for, and how to protect yourself from this contagious virus.

The Current Situation

Norovirus, sometimes referred to as the “stomach flu,” is seeing high levels of infection across the U.S., particularly in the Northeast¹²³⁴⁵. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 12 percent of tests for norovirus nationwide were coming back positive for the week ending February 17⁵. The Northeast appears to be the most affected region of the country, with a 13 percent test positivity rate⁵.

Symptoms and Transmission

Norovirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, or an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines⁴. This results in intense bouts of vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps⁴. Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure⁴. These symptoms are often sudden and very unpleasant, but most people will recover on their own⁴.

Norovirus is extremely contagious, and anyone can become infected⁴. Every year in the U.S., it causes about 20 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea, 465,000 emergency room visits, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths⁴.

Prevention and Protection

There is no specific treatment for norovirus infection⁵. The primary concern is dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses⁵. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration⁵.

To protect yourself from norovirus, it’s crucial to practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers, and before eating or preparing food⁵. Hand sanitizers can be used in addition to hand washing but should not be used as a substitute for proper handwashing⁵.

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Conclusion

The current surge in norovirus cases in the U.S. is a reminder of the importance of good hygiene practices and staying informed about public health issues. While norovirus is highly contagious and can be unpleasant, most people recover on their own within a few days. As always, if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of norovirus, it’s important to seek medical attention.