If It Seems Like Everyone Has Norovirus, It's Because They Probably Do — Virus Is Surging, Says CDC

Mar. 15, 2025

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Cases ofnorovirus— the virulent, wildly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea — are increasing in the U.S., theCenters for Disease Controlsays, reporting double the amount of cases as this time last year.

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“It only takes a few norovirus particles to make you and other people sick.”

The virus causes acute gastroenteritis — an inflammation of the stomach or intestines — which causes the diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pains. Although most people recover in three days or less, the CDC says someone who had norovirus can still be contagious for days after they’ve recovered.

Stock image of someone throwing up.Getty

To limit your risk of contracting the virus, the CDC recommends washing your hands — but cautions that hand sanitizer doesn’t work well against the virus.  The agency also says to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming them, and to cook oysters and other shellfish to an internal temperature of at least 145°F, which is the temperature at which norovirus — which is resistant to heat — finally starts to die.

Although there is no specific treatment for norovirus, theMayo Clinicadvises staying hydrated; Severe cases may require medical intervention for intravenous rehydration.

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source: people.com