Norovirus on the Rise

January 06, 2025

This winter, cases of the highly contagious norovirus are surging beyond levels seen in previous years.

The season of family gatherings, cold temperatures, and holiday travel are contributing to a surge in seasonal viruses, public health officials say.  Through early December, there were 91 suspected or confirmed norovirus outbreaks, which outpaces highs from the last several years.

Here’s what you need to know:

• By the numbers:  The CDC estimates about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks are reported in the U.S. every year, causing about 58 percent of foodborne illnesses.
  • The virus also is responsible for 109,000 hospitalizations annually.
• How  it spreads:  The virus is highly contagious via contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
  • People are most contagious when they have symptoms and in the first few days after symptoms.
  • Studies indicate you can still spread the illness for two weeks or longer after you feel better.
• Symptoms:  The symptoms typically develop 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to norovirus, and can include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.
  • Fever, headache, body aches, and dehydration also can occur.
• Economic impact:  The public health agency estimates the norovirus costs about $2 billion due to lost productivity and health care expenses. Worldwide, the total is $60 billion.
• What you can do:  The best protection against the virus includes thorough hand washing with soap and water; avoiding food sharing, food preparation or caring for others when sick; and careful cleaning and disinfection of surfaces.

Additional information is available online. A guide to preventing the virus in health care settings also is available.