Increase in Norovirus Infections. Here's How to Guard Against the 'Gastric Ailment'
U.S. is witnessing a surge in norovirus cases, often called the "winter vomiting bug" or "stomach flu." This seasonal illness is currently at its highest recorded level during December for over a decade.
Authorities reported a staggering 91 suspected or confirmed norovirus outbreaks within the first week of December. This is the highest recorded level at this time of year since 2012, and one of the highest reported any time of year in the past 12 years.
However, the data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention only covers 15 states, providing an incomplete picture of the virus's spread across the nation. It's possible that an increase in reported cases is due to more states joining the program over the years.
Typically, norovirus circulates more commonly between November and April in the U.S., with around 2,500 outbreaks reported annually, peaking in February.
This year, norovirus appears to be affecting more people and earlier than usual, possibly due to increased social gatherings, as per experts speaking to Fortune magazine.
Rising Seasonal Viruses
Numerous countries are observing an increase in several seasonal viruses as people tend to socialize more over the holiday season compared to the pandemic. Illnesses such as flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are also on the rise, although COVID-19 does not pose the same threat as before.
Concerningly, relatively high levels of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, which can be life-threatening for infants, are also a cause for worry among public health experts.
Countries like the U.K. have actively encouraged the public to get vaccinated against illnesses and adhere to basic hygiene measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
As of early December, Britain's public health system was battling a "quad-demic" of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus, with a reported 95% of hospital beds in England being occupied.
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the U.S., although it's commonly referred to as "stomach flu," it's unrelated to influenza.
Tiny particles of infected fecal matter can transmit norovirus via eating or drinking contaminated substances, or by touching a contaminated surface, such as a doorknob, and then touching your mouth.
Symptoms of norovirus include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain, and may also include fever, headaches, and body aches. The illness generally goes away within about three days of symptom onset, but dehydration due to vomiting and diarrhea can be a concern. Seek medical help if suspected dehydration is severe.
Protecting Yourself from Norovirus
Regular hand-washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, shaking hands, or caring for someone with the disease, can help prevent norovirus.
Avoid sharing food or drinks with an infected person, and wash contaminated sheets and clothes in hot water. Washing fruits and vegetables and thoroughly cooking seafood can also help prevent norovirus transmission through food.
If you contract norovirus, stay home for two days after your symptoms cease to avoid infecting others. Continue washing your hands regularly, as the virus can be contagious for up to two weeks after symptoms subside.
Is There a Norovirus Vaccine?
Currently, there is no approved norovirus vaccine, but Moderna is currently conducting trials for a potential vaccine. Vaccines for other seasonal illnesses, such as flu, whooping cough, and measles, which are experiencing a resurgence in the U.S., are available.
Flu vaccines are recommended annually during fall and are particularly important for individuals at risk of severe disease, including older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
RSV vaccines are available for older adults and pregnant women, who can pass on protection to their vulnerable infants. COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone aged 6 months or older, particularly for older adults, high-risk individuals, and those who have never been vaccinated.
More information on each vaccine is available on the CDC website.
In light of the surge in norovirus cases, there's an urgent need for innovative solutions in healthcare to combat this seasonal illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is actively researching potential norovirus vaccines, such as the one being developed by Moderna.
