cases of Norovirusa highly contagious stomach virus, are increasing rapidly in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) there were 91 outbreaks in the week of December 5, a significant increase from 69 the previous week and well above the three-year average of 65 in early December.
Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting virus,” causes sudden bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms can include nausea, stomach pain, body aches, headaches and fever.
The virus spreads quickly, with as few as 10 virus particles capable of infecting someone, AP writes.
According to the CDC, it is the leading cause of Foodborne illness responsible for 58% of these cases annually in the USA.
Outbreaks often occur in crowded environments such as cruise ships, nursing homes, schools and prisons. Spread occurs primarily through direct contact with an infected person or through consumption of contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
Infected people typically develop symptoms within 12 to 48 hours and recover within one to three days. However, the virus can cause severe dehydration, especially in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
According to the AP, norovirus causes 19-21 million illnesses in the U.S. each year, with about 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk, with dehydration a major risk.
There are no medications to treat norovirus.