Norovirus Outbreak in the U.S and especially in the Northeast.

What is Norovirus? and What is happening in the U.S?

KTI

Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Anyone can get infected and sick with norovirus. Norovirus is sometimes called the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.

Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the United States. People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads very easily and quickly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), norovirus causes gastroenteritis in 19–21 million people per year in the United States. The virus is also responsible for 56,000–71,000 annual hospitalizations and 570–800 deaths in the U.S. every year.

So what is happening in the U.S?

In the week ending February 17, more than 12% of tests for norovirus – a common and very contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal symptoms – came back positive, CDC data showed. That’s up from 11.5% the week before. Cases are particularly high in the Northeast, where more than 13% of tests came back positive. Positivity rates in the region have been over 13% since late January.It has led to the closure of some schools in the outbreak areas.

Most common symptoms:-

1. Diarrhea.
2. Nausea.
3. Vomiting.
4. Stomak pain.

Norovirus can spread through:-

1. Direct contact with infected person.
2. Contaminated Food or Drink.
3. Touching contaminated surfaces.

How to prevent Norovirus:-

1. Washing hand very well.
2. Handle and prepare food safely.
3. Clean and disinfect surfaces.
4. Wash laundry well. 

Resources:-

• Centers for Disease Prevention and Control(CDC).
• Medical News Today.
• CNN Health.