Norovirus cases on the rise; here are the symptoms and how to avoid catching the virus

Cases of the highly contagious norovirus are on the rise in the United States as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a significant increase in outbreaks in early December, according to the Associated Press. For the week of December 6, the CDC reported 91 outbreaks in the United States, compared to 69 outbreaks during the last week of December.

An outbreak is defined as “the occurrence of two or more similar illnesses resulting from a common exposure that is suspected or laboratory confirmed to be caused by norovirus,” according to the CDC website.

While it’s unclear how many people became ill in the outbreaks, data from previous years shows a high of 65 outbreaks reported in the first week of December.

What is norovirus and how do you get it?

Norovirus is a virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, inflammation of the stomach or intestines, according to the CDC. There are several types of norovirus that can impact each person differently and the severity of different types can vary depending on who is sick. Just 10 virus particles can make a person sick, making norovirus the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States.

Norovirus is transmitted by direct contact with an already infected person. This can be done by sharing utensils, food, or eating food handled by an infected person. You can also get it by touching objects or surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth.

An estimated 19 to 21 million cases of norovirus occur each year, with an average of 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations per year, primarily among adults ages 65 and older, according to the AP.

What are the symptoms of norovirus and how long does it take to feel better?

Symptoms tend to appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure according to the CDC. The most common symptoms are: diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain. Other symptoms include fever, headache and body aches.

Dehydration can also be caused by norovirus and the CDC says these symptoms include: decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness and insomnia.

Most people recover from norovirus within three days of illness, but can spread the virus for several days. There is no specific treatment for norovirus.

How to avoid catching norovirus?

The CDC recommends washing your hands frequently and thoroughly to prevent illness. Any shellfish you eat should be thoroughly cooked, and all fruits and vegetables should be washed before eating. You should also be sure to clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and wash your laundry in hot water.

If you have been sick yourself, you should stay home for 48 hours after your symptoms have gone to prevent further spread.

For more information, visit the CDC’s norovirus website.