Norovirus cases on the rise according to CDC data – Recognize these 5 symptoms and don't overlook them
In an unexpected turn of events, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant increase in norovirus cases and outbreaks in December 2024 compared to previous years.
According to the CDC's NoroSTAT surveillance system, there were 2,630 norovirus outbreaks reported by participating states during the 2024–2025 season, almost doubling the 1,410 outbreaks reported during the same period in the previous seasonal year (2023-2024). This rise in outbreaks is above the historical range reported during the 2012–2020 and 2021–2024 seasonal years, suggesting a higher overall burden this season.
The norovirus season in the U.S. typically starts in early December, but for the 2024–2025 season, the onset was earlier, beginning in early October 2024. This earlier start contrasts with the previous season (2023–2024), which had a more prolonged outbreak pattern extending through summer, likely driven by sustained circulation of the GII.17 norovirus genotype.
During the September–December 2024 period, the GII.17 norovirus genotype accounted for 46.3% of all outbreaks, reflecting a shift in dominant strains which may influence transmission dynamics.
In the first week of December 2024, 91 cases of norovirus were reported, marking the highest number in any week of December from 2012 to the present.
Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes relentless diarrhea and vomiting for one to three days. It spreads through direct contact with an infected person, sharing food or eating utensils, or touching contaminated surfaces. Additionally, norovirus can also cause muscle aches, fatigue, and headaches.
A low-grade fever (between 99.6 and 100.3 degrees Fahrenheit) and chills are common symptoms of norovirus, but a temperature above this range may indicate a different infection, such as COVID. Severe dehydration symptoms, such as rapid pulse, confusion, fainting, or muscle twitching, require immediate medical attention.
It is advised that a visit to a doctor is advised if norovirus symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or if the patient feels extremely unwell and cannot keep food or liquids down. If blood is observed in the toilet due to diarrhea or vomiting, it could indicate a different problem and medical help should be sought.
Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential to prevent the spread of norovirus. Given the current surge in cases, it is crucial for everyone to practice good hygiene and be aware of the symptoms to help curb the spread of this contagious virus.
- The increased number of norovirus cases and outbreaks in December 2024 calls for attention to food safety and workplace wellness, as the virus spreads easily through shared food and surfaces.
- With the rise in norovirus cases, it's imperative to emphasize health-and-wellness education in schools and communities to help people better understand the importance of hygiene.
- The CDC's report of increased norovirus cases highlights the need for improved nutrition and weight management, as maintaining a strong immune system can help combat such chronic diseases.
- As norovirus affects digestive health, it's crucial to promote awareness about the importance of digestive health and proper nutrition, especially during the norovirus season.
- The rise in norovirus cases also raises concerns about eye-health and hearing, as dehydration caused by the virus can lead to complications in these areas.
- In light of the recent increase in norovirus cases, it's essential to discuss mental-health issues, as stress and anxiety often accompany such health crises.
- Men's health is also a concern, as norovirus can potentially complicate pre-existing medical conditions or chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular health issues.
- For pregnant women, norovirus can pose a risk to their womens-health and the health of their unborn babies, making it important for parenting resources to address this.
- The CDC's report underscores the need for better therapies and treatments for norovirus and other respiratory conditions to protect public health.
- With the surge in norovirus cases, it's crucial to research and develop new medical-conditions treatments and autoimmune-disorders therapies to improve overall health and wellness.
- The CDC's report also highlights the importance of skin-care, as dehydration due to norovirus can lead to skin problems and conditions.
- Given the rise in norovirus cases, it's crucial to consider the role of CBD and neurological disorders in disease prevention and treatment.
- As norovirus outbreaks continue to increase, it's essential to research and develop new supplements and nutrition strategies to improve health-and-wellness.
- With the increase in norovirus cases, it's crucial to discuss strategies for aging, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, to help older adults stay healthy.
- As norovirus cases surge, it's essential to discuss the role of Medicare in providing affordable access to health care, including treatments for norovirus and other health conditions.
