Norovirus Cases Surge Across U.S., Outpacing Previous Years

Norovirus cases are on the rise in the United States, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting a significant increase in outbreaks compared to last year. From August 1, 2024, to December 11, 2024, there were 495 reported outbreaks, a jump from 363 during the same period in 2023.

What is Norovirus?

Often referred to as the “stomach flu,” norovirus is a highly contagious virus with symptoms typically including vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes mild fever and body aches. Symptoms typically last one to three days.

Your local Fast Pace Health clinic(s) are available to help diagnose, treat, and prevent the spread of norovirus. Your Fast Pace providers help with treatments to manage symptoms and, in severe cases of dehydration, can administer IV fluids.

Health officials and the providers at Fast Pace Health emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems who are at higher risk of dehydration. 

Norovirus spreads through the fecal-oral route, meaning transmission can occur through:

• Consuming contaminated food or water.
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth.

Take Action

Recommended prevention measures include thorough handwashing, particularly after using the restroom and before eating or preparing food. Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at home and in the workplace is also recommended.

The virus can spread rapidly in close-knit communities such as rural areas, impacting schools, workplaces, and community events.

The CDC urges individuals to prioritize hand hygiene and maintain clean environments. Those experiencing symptoms are encouraged to seek medical guidance and treatment.

 If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911.

Source: CDC, Medscape (January 14, 2025)