Norovirus cases are climbing across the US just as families prepare for holiday gatherings. WastewaterSCAN, a Stanford-led disease tracking tool, reported “high” national activity the week ending November 11, with virus concentrations up 52% compared to October. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data shows positive test rates nearly doubled since early September, rising from 7.8% to 13.7% by mid-November.
The highly contagious stomach virus typically spreads more widely during colder months, with cases peaking between November and April. Norovirus, often called the “stomach bug,” is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the US.
Health experts caution that norovirus can spread even from people who show no symptoms, making it especially difficult to contain during holiday gatherings. The virus is highly contagious, short-lived but disruptive, and prevention relies on careful hygiene and food safety.
For a closer look at what causes norovirus, its symptoms, and treatment options, click through for a detailed overview.