Norovirus is Surging in Parts of the U.S.

Norovirus, the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., is surging this winter, with CDC data showing a sharp increase in outbreaks. From just 69 outbreaks in late November, reports jumped to 91 by early December, far exceeding recent years’ averages.

Highly contagious, norovirus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact, requiring as few as 10 viral particles to cause illness. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain, with dehydration posing serious risks, particularly for young children and older adults. Public health professionals play a crucial role in prevention through education on hand hygiene, surface disinfection, and monitoring vulnerable populations in congregate settings. Read more from PBS here.