Norovirus Outbreaks Surge in the US

Norovirus outbreaks have surged across the United States, with the CDC reporting 91 outbreaks in early December, a significant increase from previous years. The virus, highly contagious and often referred to as the 'stomach bug,' causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, typically developing 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Florida has reported the second-highest number of outbreaks in the nation, particularly affecting crowded settings like cruise ships, where 890 passengers and crew were sickened in December alone. Experts emphasize the importance of hand hygiene, as alcohol-based sanitizers are ineffective against norovirus, and recommend avoiding travel if symptomatic. While there is no cure, staying hydrated and resting are essential for recovery. Infected individuals can continue to shed the virus even after symptoms subside, making containment critical.