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Norovirus, the highly contagious stomach bug which causes vomiting and diarrhea, is spreading in the United States. As the spring season begins, cases of norovirus continue to climb across the country, surging in certain regions.
Respiratory virus activity may be slowing down in the U.S., but the 2023-2024 norovirus season is still well underway. Nationally, norovirus is circulating at the highest levels since last April, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Norovirus, also known as the “stomach flu” or food poisoning, spreads easily among people in enclosed settings. As cases spike and thousands of Americans travel for spring break, U.S., public health officials are urging people to take precautions to stop the spread.
Although norovirus is commonly called the “stomach flu,” it is not related to the flu, which is caused by influenza viruses.
Norovirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, or an inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines, per the CDC. This can result in intense bouts of vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramps.
Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure — these are often sudden and very unpleasant, but most people will recover on their own.
“This is the dreaded virus that leaves us in the bathroom for about a day or two, we’ve all been there,” NBC News medical contributor Dr. Tara Narula said on TODAY in a segment on Feb. 27.
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