Norovirus Cases on the Rise in the U.S., CDC Reports
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal symptoms, is seeing an increase in cases in the United States, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC reports that in the week ending February 17th, over 12% of tests for norovirus came back positive, up from 11.5% the previous week. The Northeast region of the country has been particularly affected, with over 13% of tests returning positive results since late January.
While these numbers are in line with seasonal trends, they are lower than the levels seen at this time last year when about 15% of tests were positive. Norovirus outbreaks are most common during the late fall, winter, and early spring months, according to the CDC.
Norovirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, commonly known as a stomach bug. It is responsible for 19 million to 21 million illnesses each year, often occurring in crowded environments such as nursing homes, day care centers, and cruise ships. The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or liquids, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s mouth.
The most common symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. While there is no specific treatment for the virus, experts recommend drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. To avoid getting sick, the CDC advises practicing good hand hygiene, rinsing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cooking shellfish properly.
In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an advisory cautioning against the sale and consumption of certain oysters from Baja California and Mexico due to potential norovirus contamination. This highlights the importance of being aware of food sources and ensuring proper food safety practices.
In December, a sushi restaurant in North Carolina was linked to over 200 suspected cases of norovirus. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential for outbreaks in crowded establishments and the need for vigilance in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards.
As norovirus continues to be a prevalent issue, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions to prevent its spread. By following the CDC’s recommendations and practicing good hygiene, we can minimize the impact of this highly contagious virus and protect ourselves and those around us.