The highly contagious norovirus, commonly called the stomach flu, is spreading rapidly across the United States, causing a surge in vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea cases. Health experts warn that this outbreak is more severe than in previous years, with cases doubling in multiple states.
Norovirus Outbreaks Reach Alarming Levels
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus outbreaks have skyrocketed compared to previous years. Data from 14 states revealed 91 outbreaks in early December 2024, more than double the average from the past three years. This sharp rise follows 69 outbreaks reported just the week before.
Several states have reported significant spikes:
- Minnesota recorded 40 outbreaks last month—almost twice the usual number.
- West Virginia saw a 65% increase in cases between November and December.
- Colorado also reported an above-average number of outbreaks.
Dr. Erica Prochaska, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, noted that norovirus cases surge during winter months when people gather indoors, making transmission easier.
How Does Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., responsible for over 50% of food-related infections. The virus spreads through:
- Contaminated food (leafy greens, fresh fruits, shellfish, and improperly handled meals).
- Person-to-person contact via hands, surfaces, and shared items.
- Airborne droplets from vomiting or close contact with an infected individual.
- Recently, the FDA issued a warning about norovirus contamination in Washington state oysters, emphasizing the risk of foodborne transmission.
- High-Risk Locations for Norovirus Outbreaks
- Restaurants and catered events, where contaminated food is often the source.
- Schools, daycare centers, and nursing homes, where close contact increases exposure.
Cruise ships, notorious for norovirus outbreaks, have reported over a dozen cases in 2024, with a Holland America ship recently confirming 86 sick passengers.
Dr. Dean Winslow, an infectious disease specialist at Stanford University, attributes the rise in cases to increased travel, public gatherings, and social interactions after years of COVID-19 precautions.
Norovirus Symptoms Can Appear Suddenly
Symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last one to three days. The most common signs include:
- Severe vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Fever and body aches
While most people recover with rest and hydration, young children and seniors are at higher risk of severe illness. Norovirus leads to 465,000 emergency room visits annually, mainly affecting children, and causes nearly 900 deaths per year among older adults.
How to Protect Yourself from Norovirus
With no vaccine available, prevention is the best defense. The CDC recommends:
✔ Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (hand sanitizer is not as effective).
✔ Avoiding food preparation for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.
✔ Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, as the virus can survive on hard surfaces for 12 hours and on carpets for 12 days.
As cases continue to rise, Dr. Prochaska warns that the outbreak may persist through winter and early spring.
