Kinkini Gupta
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Norovirus Cases Surge In the US: Know The Symptoms, Causes, And How To Protect Yourself
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a notable increase in norovirus cases, also known as the stomach flu, in early December. During the week of December 5, the CDC recorded 91 cases, more than double the highest number observed between 2021 and 2024. This follows a statement from the Minnesota Department of Health, which highlighted that the state saw twice the average number of stomach flu cases in December.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, resulting in gastroenteritis. Despite being called the "stomach flu," it is unrelated to influenza. Norovirus affects people of all ages and is a leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide. This article provides information on the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures for norovirus.
Norovirus spreads primarily through:
Symptoms typically appear 12 48 hours after exposure and include:
These symptoms usually last 1 3 days but can be severe in young children, older adults, or individuals with weakened immune systems.