The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently announced a surge in Norovirus cases, particularly in the Northeast of the United States. Also known as the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug”, Norovirus is a common, highly contagious virus that can lead to troublesome gastrointestinal symptoms.
Derived from minuscule particles of feces or vomit, the virus can cause a wide range of diseases. The CDC explained, “Norovirus, an exceptionally communicable virus, can lead to bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Regardless of age, anyone can contract and fall ill from Norovirus.”
According to recent CDC data, more than 12% of tests in the week ending on February 17 came back positive for the virus, a slight increase from the previous week’s results of slightly over 11.5%. The Northeast, in particular, has seen a larger increase in Norovirus cases, with over 16% of tests returning positive for the virus in the week ending on February 24.
What are the symptoms of Norovirus?
The CDC identifies Norovirus as the leading cause of foodborne illness, vomiting, and diarrhea in the United States. The virus triggers acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.
How is Norovirus transmitted?
There’s a common misapprehension that Norovirus is related to flu because of its moniker “stomach flu”. Nevertheless, Norovirus can affect individuals of any age group, and unlike flu, it disseminates rapidly and broadly. The virus is passed on through minuscule particles of feces or vomit entering the mouth. Although someone unwell with Norovirus could shed billions of particles, it only takes a handful to make someone ill.
How does Norovirus spread?
Norovirus can also be transmitted through food or water contaminated by the virus. Food handled by someone with Norovirus or placed on a contaminated surface could be a potential source of infection. Additionally, food grown with contaminated water could further propel the virus’s reach.
When is Norovirus contagious?
The CDC warns that individuals infected with Norovirus are most contagious when they exhibit symptoms. However, even after recovery, they could still potentially spread the virus for a period exceeding two weeks, making it a prolonged health risk.
How to prevent the spread of Norovirus
To deter the spread of Norovirus, the CDC recommends good hygiene practices. These include thorough hand washing with soap and water, as they caution that hand sanitizers do not work effectively against the virus. Moreover, disinfecting surfaces with bleach, doing laundry with hot water, and proper handling of food is also advised. They also suggest routine cleaning and sanitizing of kitchen utensils, counters, and surfaces.
