
(StraightShooterNews.com) – In a troublesome trend nationwide, a surge in norovirus infections has health authorities sounding the alarm.
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Rising cases across the nation, including a record number of cruise ship outbreaks this December, highlight the urgent need for vigilance and rigorous hygiene practices.
This winter, norovirus outbreaks have alarmingly increased throughout parts of the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 91 confirmed or suspected outbreaks as of early December, a stark rise from 69 in late November.
Known for causing gastrointestinal distress, norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the U.S., responsible for a staggering 58% of these infections annually, AP News reports.
Norovirus spreads alarmingly quickly and efficiently.
As few as ten viral particles can trigger an infection, a fact made alarming by the ease of transmission through direct contact, contaminated food and water, and even surfaces.
Symptoms typically manifest 12 to 48 hours post-exposure, with those infected experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, body aches, headaches, and fever.
Alarmingly, these symptoms appear with little warning and can lead to severe dehydration, particularly among at-risk groups such as young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
Given the contagious nature of norovirus, maintaining strict hand hygiene with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds remains crucial.
Dr. Leana Wen, cited by CBS, emphasizes the importance of washing hands meticulously, particularly before eating at buffets or after touching commonly used surfaces.
Avoiding food preparation while symptomatic is essential to prevent further transmission.
Despite advancements in medical science, there is no medication or vaccine available to treat or prevent norovirus.
Rehydration is vital, and individuals are advised to avoid caffeine and alcohol.
“Wash your hands really well, especially if you’re going to buffets. Wash your hands if you’re touching commonly touched surfaces, before you touch your mouth, before you touch your nose,” Dr. Wen said.
Outbreaks commonly occur wherever people are in close proximity for extended periods, such as cruise ships, nursing homes, schools, or jails, contributing to the virus’ rapid spread.
December alone has recorded an unprecedented number of outbreaks on cruise ships, highlighting the challenges of containment in crowded environments.
Public health experts caution that the convergence of people in these settings, especially during the virus-prone months of November to April, dramatically heightens the risk of outbreaks.
The CDC urges Americans to remain vigilant and practice stringent hygiene measures to protect themselves and their communities.
Know how to #ProtectYourHealth from the #Norovirus surge.
Norovirus is a very contagious respiratory virus that can spike in cold temperatures. Here are steps you can take to prevent the spread:
1️⃣ Wash hands well with soap and water, hand sanitizer does not work well against… pic.twitter.com/YyTf47sVAa
— CDC Emergency (@CDCemergency) January 16, 2025
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