The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting a rise in norovirus cases compared to previous years.
The agency is reporting an uptick in early December after outbreaks of the virus, commonly known as stomach flu, were reported nationwide, USA Today reported.
According to the latest CDC data, there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus reported during the week of Dec. 5. During the last week of November, there were 69 outbreaks, The Associated Press reported.
In Minnesota, more than 40 outbreaks were reported in December, according to that state’s Department of Health.
The stomach bug is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from inflammation of the stomach and intestines, or gastroenteritis, USA Today reported, citing CDC data. It is also the top cause of foodborne illness in the United States and causes 58% of the illnesses acquired, according to the newspaper.
Norovirus is extremely contagious and can cause symptoms within 12 to 48 hours after being exposed, the CDC said. Most people recover fully within one to three days after contracting the virus.
There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the U.S., the AP reported. Outbreaks can occur at any time throughout the year but are typically most common from November to April.
On average, the norovirus causes 900 deaths and sends more than 109,000 people to the hospital each year, according to the AP.
The best way to prevent norovirus is to wash your hands with soap and water, clean and disinfect surfaces using bleach and use hot water in the laundry.
Do not depend on hand sanitizer to combat norovirus. It can be used in addition but not as a substitute for washing your hands, the CDC said.
Persons with the virus should not prepare food or take care of others. The illness can still be spread two days after symptoms stop.
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