Norovirus Cases Surge Across the U.S As the new year begins, norovirus cases, often referred to as the “stomach flu,” are surging across the United States. Known for causing severe diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, the highly contagious virus has hit record outbreak numbers for this time of year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
During the week ending December 5, 2024, the CDC reported 91 norovirus outbreaks—more than double the number reported in the same week over the past three years. This marks the highest early December outbreak levels since 2012.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a group of viruses responsible for acute gastroenteritis, which causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Despite being nicknamed the “stomach flu,” it is not related to influenza viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. The virus spreads easily through contact with infected individuals, contaminated food or water, and surfaces.
With an estimated 19–21 million illnesses annually in the U.S., norovirus is also the leading cause of foodborne illness. The CDC attributes about 2,500 outbreaks, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths to the virus each year.
2024–2025 Norovirus Season: A Decade-High Spike
The winter months, particularly between November and April, are peak norovirus season. Referred to as “winter vomiting disease,” the virus thrives during colder months. Between August 1 and December 11, 2024, the CDC’s NoroSTAT surveillance program recorded 495 outbreaks in 14 participating states, a significant jump from the 363 outbreaks reported during the same period in 2023.
Recent lab data reveals an alarming positivity rate for norovirus tests, which reached 22% for the week ending December 28, compared to 12% during the same period last year.
Cruise Ship Norovirus Outbreaks in 2024
Cruise ships are a common setting for norovirus outbreaks due to close quarters and shared facilities. In 2024, the CDC documented 16 outbreaks on cruise ships, including five in December alone, which affected 890 passengers and crew members.
Norovirus Prevention Tips
Given its highly contagious nature, preventing the spread of norovirus requires vigilance. Key measures include:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Proper cleaning of contaminated surfaces.
- Thoroughly cooking seafood and washing fresh produce.
- Staying home when sick to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Mpox Vaccination Hesitancy in Africa
Meanwhile, a recent survey published in eClinicalMedicine highlights significant hesitancy toward mpox vaccination in Africa. Conducted among adults in Uganda, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, the study revealed that 32.7% of respondents were reluctant to receive the vaccine, while 38.9% were hesitant to vaccinate their children.
Hesitancy was more prevalent among individuals with lower education levels, unemployment, or lack of prior vaccination experience. However, the survey suggested that improving vaccination education and promoting readiness could help address these concerns, particularly in regions with low immunization coverage.
Conclusion
As norovirus outbreaks continue to climb to decade-high levels, public awareness of prevention measures is essential to curbing the spread of this virus. Meanwhile, addressing vaccine hesitancy remains a critical component of public health strategies, both for norovirus prevention and broader immunization efforts worldwide.
or additional details, you can visit the official CDC page on Norovirus or check their Outbreak Surveillance Data.
For information on vaccination hesitancy and global health, you can refer to the study published in eClinicalMedicine or explore insights from the World Health Organization (WHO).