Norovirus on the Rise in the U.S.: Prevention Tips and Expert Advice

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released new data indicating a rise in norovirus cases in the U.S. According to the latest findings, over 12% of tests for norovirus returned positive results during the week of Feb. 17, marking an increase from 11.5% the previous week. The surge in norovirus cases has raised concerns among health experts due to the highly contagious nature of the virus.

Prevalence and Impact of Norovirus

Norovirus, often referred to as the "stomach flu," is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis. The CDC estimates that it leads to more than 19 million illnesses annually in the country, with a significant impact on young children, resulting in approximately 465,000 emergency department visits.

Distinguishing Norovirus from the Flu

Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a pediatric infectious diseases physician at the Mayo Clinic Children's Center, explains that norovirus is distinct from influenza, despite its colloquial name. While the flu primarily affects the respiratory system, gastroenteritis caused by norovirus targets the intestines, leading to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and low-grade fever.

Risk of Dehydration and Vulnerable Populations

Notably, norovirus symptoms, particularly nausea and vomiting, typically last for one to two days, posing a risk of dehydration. This concern is particularly heightened for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Management and Prevention Strategies

The CDC advises that individuals with norovirus typically do not require medical intervention unless they experience signs of dehydration. In such cases, rehydration and electrolyte management are crucial, while over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications can offer relief.

Preventing Norovirus Spread

Health experts emphasize the importance of thorough hand hygiene in preventing norovirus transmission. While hand sanitizer has become a staple for personal hygiene during the pandemic, washing hands with soap and warm water is deemed more effective in combating norovirus spread. Additionally, avoiding the sharing of food with potentially infected individuals is recommended.

In terms of environmental disinfection, the use of bleach-based cleaning products is suggested to eliminate the virus from surfaces. Individuals can also create their own cleaning solution by mixing household bleach with water.

Furthermore, the Mayo Clinic provides the following tips to curb the spread of norovirus:

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Clean fruits and vegetables before consumption.
• Ensure thorough cooking of food.
• Stay home and limit contact with others when experiencing symptoms.
• Avoid food preparation for others when sick with vomiting or diarrhea.
• Disinfect contaminated surfaces and counters.