Cases of a nasty stomach disease are soaring in areas of the United States this winter, according to official statistics.
The latest current figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus recorded during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the final week of November.
Numbers from the prior few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks recorded during that first week of December.
A norovirus infection is characterized by acute vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are typically found on cruise ships, in communal living circumstances like nursing homes and jails, as well as schools and locations where people are close together.
Here are a few things to know about the virus.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is the largest cause of foodborne disease in the United States, responsible for 58% of such illnesses acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.
Norovirus infections are caused by a group of viruses that spread quickly, with as little as 10 viral particles having the power to make someone sick, health experts say.
There are roughly 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the United States. The outbreaks can occur throughout the year but are most likely from November to April.
Along along with vomiting and diarrhea, frequent symptoms include nausea, stomach discomfort, body soreness, headache and fever.
How do you obtain it?
Most norovirus outbreaks occur when persons who are already sick transfer the virus to others via direct ways, such as through sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also be spread by food, drink or contaminated surfaces .
How long do you stay sick?
Illness caused by norovirus often starts rapidly, with symptoms emerging 12 to 48 hours following contact to the virus. Most individuals feel better within one to three days and recover totally.
But with 19 to 21 million cases each year in the United States, norovirus nonetheless causes on average 900 fatalities and 109,000 hospitalizations yearly, especially among individuals aged 65 and older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency room visits, usually affecting young children.
Who’s at risk?
People of all ages can become infected and fall sick from norovirus. Young children, older individuals and those with compromised immune systems are most at danger, with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea the major worry.
There is no medicine to treat norovirus. Rehydration is suggested by consuming water and other liquids, with the exclusion of coffee, tea and alcohol.
