As flu, COVID-19, and RSV continue to spread across the country, health officials are sounding the alarm over another illness surging at record levels—norovirus. Often referred to as the stomach flu, this highly contagious virus is rapidly spreading, causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
Norovirus Spreading Fast With a New Variant
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of norovirus cases is climbing at an alarming rate. One of the main reasons behind the increase is the emergence of a new variant, which often leads to a 50% spike in infections when it begins circulating.
Norovirus spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces, or consuming food or drinks tainted with the virus. Unlike respiratory viruses, norovirus is primarily transmitted through fecal-oral routes.
Health experts warn that even tiny amounts of the virus—often shed through vomit or stool—can contain billions of infectious particles. These particles can survive on commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, faucets, countertops, and toilet handles, for extended periods, making it easy for outbreaks to occur in schools, daycare centers, nursing homes, and cruise ships.
Preventing the Stomach Flu: What You Need to Know
With no specific antiviral treatment available for norovirus, health officials emphasize prevention as the best strategy to avoid infection. The CDC strongly advises frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against the virus.
If infected, individuals should stay home, avoid preparing food for others, and launder contaminated clothing and bedding in hot water to prevent spreading the illness. Most people recover within one to three days without medical intervention.
Public health officials continue to monitor the outbreak, urging the public to practice proper hygiene and take extra precautions to minimize the risk of infection.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
Discover more from Today's Esquire
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.