Surge in Norovirus Cases Reported in U.S.

Norovirus infections, commonly known as the stomach flu, have surged dramatically, with outbreak rates approximately double those observed from 2021 to 2024 and nine times higher than during the initial pandemic year. Recent data indicates that there were 91 outbreaks reported in the week ending December 5, compared to just 41 outbreaks at the same time last year, with state-level trends pointing to a continued rise. Contributing factors include the lifting of pandemic-era safety measures, which weakened population immunity, and increased indoor gatherings during the holiday season. A new strain, GII.17[P17], is currently dominating outbreaks, accounting for nearly 70% of cases and potentially exacerbating the situation. Norovirus is highly contagious, spreads through contaminated surfaces and food, and is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, causing around 900 deaths annually. Health experts emphasize the importance of hand hygiene to prevent further spread as the virus peaks during winter months.