1 day Ago By [email protected] (N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe)
Updated April 2nd 2025, 12:34 IST Recently, the CDC highlighted outbreaks of GI illness on cruise ships within the VSP jurisdiction, raising growing concerns among the public. Norovirus outbreak in the US: In 1968, Norovirus was named after Norwalk, Ohio, in the United States, where the disease was first identified as the ‘Norwalk agent.’ The outbreak occurred when children at Bronson Elementary School exhibited symptoms of acute gastroenteritis.
Norovirus typically peaks between the months of November and April. Marking a significant spike, the U.S.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 91 outbreaks by the end of 2024, reflecting a notable increase compared to previous years. Also read: Russia Battles Mysterious Blood-Coughing Virus - Know Cause, Cure Recently, the CDC again highlighted outbreaks of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on cruise ships within the Vessel Sanitation Program's (VSP) jurisdiction, raising growing concerns among the public. Symptoms of Norovirus Individuals suffering from GI illness may experience symptoms such as vomiting, along with one or more of the following: diarrhea, muscle aches, headaches, abdominal cramps, or fever, according to the CDC .
Steps to protect yourself from Norovirus Protecting yourself from Norovirus primarily involves maintaining good hygiene. This includes washing your hands with soap or using hand sanitizer when soap is unavailable. Be sure to thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.
Discard any foods that may have been exposed to the virus, as Noroviruses are relatively resistant to heat and can survive temperatures as high as 145°F. The CDC explains that “quick steaming processes will not heat foods enough to kill noroviruses.” Additionally, remember to wear gloves when handling potentially contaminated items, disinfect surfaces frequently, and wash clothes and linens regularly when needed to reduce the risk of infection.
Published April 2nd 2025, 12:08 IST.
