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Norovirus Outbreak Surges in the Northeastern United States
A highly contagious stomach virus has been spreading rapidly in the Northeast since November and has now reached New Jersey.
The norovirus, also known as the stomach flu or stomach bug, has been spreading across the country, with the Northeast reporting the highest positivity rate since the beginning of 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Recent reports suggest that the virus is gaining traction in New Jersey, as The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has seen several cases, and instances have been identified in Camden County, as reported by ABC.
Although the current norovirus outbreak is not considered more severe than previous ones, it continues to cause concern in the region. However, Dr. Cristopher Freer, Senior Vice President of Emergency and Hospitalist Medicine at RWJBarnabas Health, states that the outbreak is not affecting their operations significantly.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that affects the stomach and intestines. In the United States alone, it is responsible for nearly 20 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea, along with over 100,000 hospitalizations each year, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.
The virus tends to peak during the colder months of the year and can be contracted through various ways, including direct contact with infected individuals, consuming contaminated food or water, and even sharing drinks or engaging in close personal contact.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that irritates the stomach and intestines, commonly leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramping.
Contrary to popular belief, norovirus is not a parasite and is unrelated to respiratory flu. It is, however, widespread, causing millions of cases of gastrointestinal distress and thousands of hospitalizations annually in the U.S.
Outbreaks of norovirus tend to occur seasonally, particularly during the colder months.
How does norovirus spread?
Norovirus is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces, infected individuals, or consuming contaminated food or water. It can even spread through the sharing of drinks and close personal contact. However, wearing masks is not necessary to prevent its transmission, according to Dr. Freer.
The virus is commonly found in sea animals, making the consumption of raw seafood a risk factor for infection. Additionally, proper hand hygiene, such as washing hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers, is essential for prevention.
Symptoms of norovirus infection include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach cramping.
Preventing Norovirus
To prevent norovirus infection, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases recommends the following:
- Thoroughly and frequently washing hands, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, eating, or handling food.
- Washing fruits and vegetables.
- Ensuring shellfish is thoroughly cooked.
- Cleaning and disinfecting areas where vomit was present.
- Sanitizing the bathroom after a person with diarrhea has used it.
Although norovirus can be transmitted through saliva, measures such as wearing masks are not considered necessary for prevention.
Treatment for Stomach Flu
Dr. Freer suggests that adults should consume four to six 12-ounce cups of water mixed with electrolyte-rich drinks like Gatorade to stay hydrated. For children, small periodic doses of water throughout the day, with caution for inducing vomiting, are recommended.
Consuming saltine crackers or other sodium-rich snacks can aid recovery, as salt plays a pivotal role. However, monitoring liquid intake versus the amount of vomiting or diarrhea is crucial. In cases where fluid loss is excessive and the individual is not able to retain water, seeking prompt medical attention is advised to prevent severe dehydration.
Development of a Norovirus Vaccine
While there is currently no approved vaccine for norovirus, recent trials by biotechnology company Vaxart showed promising results for an oral pill to prevent norovirus. However, more trials need to be completed before the pill is approved for use.
Testing for Norovirus
Diagnosing norovirus infection is typically based on symptoms. However, in cases of medical complications, physicians may recommend a stool sample test to confirm the presence of the virus.
Duration of Norovirus
The symptoms of norovirus typically last from 1 to 3 days. However, an infected person can remain contagious for more than two weeks after the symptoms have resolved.
