FILE-A scientist examines cells using a microscope. (Photo by ISAAC LAWRENCE/AFP via Getty Images)
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that norovirus outbreaks surged in December.
The agency reported that there were 91 norovirus outbreaks reported during the week of Dec. 5, an increase from 69 outbreaks the last week of November. Data from the past couple of years display a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during that first week of December.
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What is the norovirus?
The norovirus is a very contagious virus that is sometimes referred to as the "stomach flu" or the "stomach bug." According to the CDC, it can also cause acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines. People with the norovirus can get better in one to three days, but they can still spread the virus for a few days after that.
Symptoms of norovirus
The most common symptoms of norovirus are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. Other symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches.
Meanwhile, if you have the norovirus, you can feel extremely ill, and vomit or have diarrhea many times a day. This can lead to dehydration (loss of body fluids), especially in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses.
CDC officials note an individual can develop symptoms for norovirus 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to the virus.
How can I protect myself from norovirus?
There are multiple ways to protect yourself from the norovirus, which include washing your hands, cooking shellfish thoroughly and washing fruits and vegetables, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, washing laundry in hot water, and staying home when sick for two days after symptoms stop.
How does the norovirus spread?
The norovirus can spread very easily in several ways and people can get it by having direct contact with someone with norovirus, eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus, and touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then placing your unwashed fingers in your mouth. The CDC notes that you can still spread norovirus for two weeks or more after you feel better.