Health
Norovirus Cases Surge This Holiday Season
Health Points
- Norovirus cases are rising earlier than usual, hinting at a harsher season.
- A new GII.17 strain may help explain the sharp increase in outbreaks this year.
- Handwashing and avoiding food prep while sick are key steps to prevent spreading the virus.
This holiday season, the rate of norovirus infections is climbing faster than previous years, according to recent CDC data. Nearly 14 percent of tests came back positive in mid-November, surpassing last year’s levels for the same period.
Norovirus, often dubbed the “winter vomiting disease,” typically peaks from December through March. Experts warn that this early spike could signal a more challenging season ahead.
“Last year was a pretty bad year, and I would say that we are on track to have a similar or worse year,” Dr. Donald Schaffner explains.
This year’s heightened activity might be driven by a new variant of norovirus, known as GII.17, which now accounts for the majority of outbreaks. Dr. Schaffner notes that this evolving virus leaves many people newly susceptible.
Frank Yiannas, MPH, adds, “Seeing activity start to increase in November isn’t unusual.”
Still, extra vigilance is advised, especially in settings like food service or healthcare facilities, where the illness can quickly spread. The GII.17 strain’s recent jump in prevalence has more people at risk since many haven’t developed immunity to it yet.
Most norovirus infections cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, watery diarrhea, low fever, and muscle aches. These typically start 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last up to three days, but some people can carry and shed the virus far longer.
Norovirus is highly contagious, spreading through contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, food, or water. Particles from vomit or stool can enter your mouth in everyday settings, making it easy for outbreaks to occur.
Key prevention steps include frequent handwashing, especially after bathroom visits or before eating, and staying out of kitchens or caregiving roles until two days after symptoms end. There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with fluids, rest, and bland foods.
Stay informed and protect yourself and others by practicing thorough hygiene during this norovirus season.