While coronavirus cases are declining in the United States, another virus is regaining its pre-pandemic levels. Since the beginning of January, norovirus outbreaks, which cause stomach flu, have surged considerably. Due to the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, people are gathering more which has further increased the frequency of illnesses.

According to the most recent CDC data, the number of weekly outbreaks has increased from fewer than 10 to more than 50 since early January. The information is based on reports from state health departments in Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Norovirus outbreaks are more frequent in settings where people are in close quarters, such as cruise ships and daycare centres. CDC reported 448 norovirus outbreaks between August 2021 and early March 2022 which was just 78 the previous year during the same time.

The norovirus is highly contagious and spreads from person to person via infected surfaces, contaminated food, or contaminated water. The norovirus infection, often known as stomach flu, causes symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, stomach discomfort, and vomiting. CDC suggests proper hand hygiene after using the bathroom and all possible precautions while preparing food. To avoid spreading the norovirus, people should stay at home when sick and for two days after symptoms have subsided. (Medscape  April 04, 2022)