Denver - This winter, the United States is experiencing one of the most significant surges of norovirus outbreaks seen in over a decade. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 91 norovirus outbreaks reported during the week of December 5, marking the highest number of outbreaks for the same week since 2012. This increase is part of a broader trend, with total outbreaks rising across the country from last year.
Flor Mira, a resident of Colorado, shared her recent struggle with the virus, attributing her illness to her young son. "I threw up on the first day I felt the symptoms. Right now, I still feel the cramps in my stomach very strongly, and they'll come and they'll go," she recounted. Her symptoms, like many others experiencing the wretched virus, included rapid vomiting and strong stomach pains.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has recorded this year’s incidents of norovirus more than tripling over the past three years. Between September 1 and December 31, there were 175 outbreaks reported. Most of these cases originate from settings with many people, such as schools, daycares, and nursing homes.
9NEWS medical expert Dr. Payal Kohli raised questions about the spikes this winter. "The first question is, is it an outbreak because we are doing something different?" she pondered, indicating the increased levels of social activity following the COVID-19 pandemic. "There’s more travel, there’s more intermingling, there’s more people getting together." The potential for the virus itself to mutate has left experts guessing if it has become more virulent or easier to transmit.
Meanwhile, California has also seen rising norovirus levels, with the California Department of Public Health and researchers involved with WastewaterSCAN reporting higher-than-usual incidence rates. Dr. Marlene Wolfe, co-principal investigator with WastewaterSCAN, indicated, "We expect to see norovirus increasing at this time of year; our data do suggest the current levels are higher than previous years." She added, "Norovirus usually peaks between February and April. It remains to be seen if we will have an earlier peak this year or whether these levels will continue to rise." This aligns with CDC data showing 495 norovirus outbreaks across the country from August to December—up from 363 compared to the same period last year.
Throughout the country, reports reflect the contagious nature of norovirus, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and even fever. It’s important to note the standard timeframe for symptoms to appear: within 12 to 48 hours after exposure. The CDC emphasizes the ability for infected individuals to spread the virus even after they recover, sometimes for days to weeks.
Experts believe the surge is partly due to increased social interactions during the holiday season as precautions from the pandemic decrease. Dr. Gohil from the University of California, Irvine, stresses the importance of vigilance: "We need to shore those practices back up." She also encouraged everyone to recognize their responsibility within the community—individual actions can significantly impact public health.
The most significant takeaways for individuals are prevention and hydration. Keeping hands washed with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom or before eating, is the CDC’s primary recommendation for protection against norovirus. Cleaning surfaces with disinfectants is also highlighted as necessary preventive measures to stop outbreaks.
Those experiencing symptoms of norovirus should focus on hydration. Staying hydrated is the most important thing to do during this time, with caregivers urged to observe signs of dehydration. Classic indicators include decreased urination, dry mouth or throat, and dizziness. Dr. Kohli reiterated this sentiment, expressing, "Prevention is always best."
Finally, the general consensus among health professionals is clear: vigilance is key. Residents are advised to stay home when sick and to avoid close contact with others, reinforcing the importance of community health and individual responsibility. Following these guidelines can help mitigate spread and keep outbreaks from reaching epidemic levels.