Norovirus Cases Surge in US and UK, Schools and Cruise Ships Hit
Norovirus cases are surging in the US and UK, with schools and carnival cruise ships hit by outbreaks. The virus, which causes severe stomach upset, is highly contagious and spreads rapidly in closed environments.
The CDC has reported a rise in norovirus cases across the US since early 2023. In the UK, cases are approximately 66% higher than the five-season average before COVID-19. Norovirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis, leading to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal upset, but not always a fever. Symptoms typically last for 1-3 days and can be extremely uncomfortable during that time.
Norovirus is highly transmissible, with each infected person shedding billions of viral particles. Treatment is based on symptomatic care, focusing on hydration to prevent dehydration. There have been at least 13 norovirus outbreaks on carnival cruise ships this year, and large clusters of cases are being reported in schools. Proper hand hygiene, washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, is the number one way to prevent norovirus transmission.
Norovirus causes between 19 and 21 million illnesses, nearly 500,000 emergency department visits, and about 900 deaths in the US each year. As cases rise, health officials urge vigilance in hygiene and prompt medical attention for severe symptoms.
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