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Norovirus, a highly contagious stomach virus, is spreading rapidly across the United States as the country nears the peak of its winter illness season. The virus, which causes gastroenteritis, typically sees a surge in outbreaks during this time of year. Canada has also reported widespread outbreaks, while infection rates in the United Kingdom have reached record highs.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus outbreaks in early December hit their highest levels for this time of year since 2012.
In the week ending Dec. 5, 2024, at least 91 suspected and confirmed norovirus outbreaks were reported in the U.S.
– more than double the number recorded in the same week over the past three years. 2 View gallery Norovirus ( Photo: Shutterstock ) Dr. Khuzaima Khamaisi, an infectious disease specialist with Clalit Health Services in Israel’s northern district, explains: “Norovirus occasionally causes outbreaks in the United States, so this isn’t unusual.
It’s an extremely contagious virus and a leading cause of gastrointestinal infections.” Israel has not seen a significant norovirus outbreak in recent years, but Khmaisi notes that some people may contract the virus and not seek medical attention, meaning cases go unreported. The virus is detected through a simple molecular PCR test using a stool sample.
She also emphasizes that alcohol-based hand sanitizers, including hand gels, are ineffective against norovirus. Instead, frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is the best preventive measure. What is Norovirus? Norovirus refers to a group of viruses that are the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, which manifests as vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
Though often called the "stomach flu," it is unrelated to influenza, which affects the respiratory system. 2 View gallery ( Photo: Shutterstock ) "The virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected people, contaminated food and drinks, or contaminated surfaces," Khamaisi says. "Outbreaks spread quickly and are difficult to control, especially in households, schools, daycare centers, nursing homes, cruise ships, and other confined spaces.
" Get the Ynetnews app on your smartphone: Google Play : https://bit.ly/4eJ37pE | Apple App Store : https://bit.ly/3ZL7iNv Norovirus outbreaks occur year-round but are most common in the winter.
In the U.S., the virus causes an estimated 19 million to 21 million infections, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths annually, according to the CDC.
It is a major cause of illness among children, and in developing countries it is linked to approximately 50,000 child deaths per year. Symptoms and prevention Khamaisi explains that symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and come on suddenly and intensely. "Common signs include watery diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain or cramps, and nausea," she says.
"People may also experience headaches, low-grade fever, chills and fatigue." Dr. Khuzaima Khamaisi Most individuals recover within one to three days, but complications such as dehydration can occur, particularly in children, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
A person infected with norovirus is contagious from the onset of symptoms and remains so for several days after recovery. However, the virus can continue to be shed in stool for two weeks or longer, increasing the risk of reinfection through contaminated surfaces. To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend: Frequent handwashing with soap and water Thoroughly cooking shellfish and seafood Avoiding food preparation for others while sick Disinfecting contaminated surfaces with bleach-based solutions Washing clothes and linens at high temperatures Why Is Norovirus spreading so Rrpidly? Experts cannot pinpoint the exact reason for the current spike in norovirus cases, but they suggest several contributing factors: GII.
17 strain: Norovirus has many strains, and one, known as GII.17, has become increasingly dominant in the U.S.
In the past, this strain was rare, meaning fewer people had built immunity to it. In recent months, seven out of 10 norovirus outbreaks in the U.S.
have been linked to this strain. Winter conditions: The virus thrives in colder months when people spend more time indoors. High infectiousness: It takes only a small number of viral particles to cause an infection.
These particles can survive on surfaces for weeks, making norovirus especially easy to spread. How does norovirus spread? Norovirus primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning particles from an infected person’s vomit or stool enter another person’s mouth. Common transmission methods include: Direct contact with an infected person (such as handshakes or close physical contact) Sharing utensils, food or drinks Touching contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, faucets, or light switches, and then touching the mouth Eating contaminated food, such as raw or undercooked shellfish, fruits, or vegetables "There is no specific medication for norovirus, and the illness usually resolves on its own within a few days," Khmaisi says.
"However, symptoms can be managed by staying hydrated with water, low-sodium broths, or oral rehydration solutions, and by eating light, easily digestible foods. Getting enough rest is also crucial, as the symptoms can be exhausting. In severe cases, such as extreme dehydration, medical intervention may be required, including IV fluids.
" Currently, there is no approved vaccine for norovirus. However, several pharmaceutical companies, including Moderna, are working on vaccine development. Promising clinical trials are in advanced stages, with some utilizing mRNA technology – similar to COVID-19 vaccines.
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