Norovirus Cases on the Rise in the US, CDC Reports
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal symptoms, is on the rise in the United States, according to the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The recent CDC report reveals that in the week ending February 17, over 12% of tests for norovirus came back positive, indicating an increase from the previous week’s 11.5%. The Northeast region of the US is particularly affected, with more than 13% of tests returning positive results. These levels, however, are still lower than those recorded during the same period last season when around 15% of tests were positive nationwide and in the Northeast.
The CDC explains that outbreaks of norovirus are most common during the late fall, winter, and early spring. It is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as a stomach bug, in the US. Annually, norovirus is responsible for 19 million to 21 million illnesses, predominantly occurring in crowded environments such as nursing homes, day care centers, and cruise ships.
The virus can spread through direct contact with an infected person, consumption of contaminated food or liquids, or touching contaminated surfaces and subsequently touching one’s mouth. Alarmingly, the CDC warns that even after symptoms have resolved, an infected person can still transmit norovirus for two or more weeks.
The most prevalent symptoms associated with norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. While there is no specific treatment for the virus, medical experts advise individuals to stay hydrated by consuming plenty of liquids. To prevent illness, the CDC recommends practicing good hygiene habits such as frequent handwashing, rinsing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring shellfish is cooked thoroughly.
In January, the US 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 warning highlights the importance of food safety measures in preventing the spread of the virus.
In a separate incident, a sushi restaurant in North Carolina was linked to over 200 suspected cases of norovirus in December. This outbreak serves as a reminder of the significance of proper food handling and preparation to avoid contamination.
As norovirus continues to pose a significant public health concern, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent its spread. By following the CDC’s guidelines, including practicing good hygiene and safe food handling practices, we can collectively work towards reducing the impact of norovirus outbreaks in our communities.
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