Find info on norovirus symptoms, causes, prevention, current outbreaks, and reporting systems.

Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It is sometimes called the "stomach flu" or the "stomach bug." However, norovirus illness is not related to the flu.

Apr 24, 2024 · Norovirus is very contagious; it spreads very easily and quickly. You can get norovirus from sick people and through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. You are most contagious when you have symptoms of norovirus illness or …

Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis among people of all ages in the United States. Each year, there are about 2,500 reported norovirus outbreaks in the United States. Norovirus causes 58% of foodborne illnesses acquired in the United States.

Jan 13, 2025 · Norovirus is very contagious, but you can take steps to stop it from spreading. Wash hands well with soap and water; hand sanitizer alone does not work well against norovirus. Do not prepare, handle food, or care for others when you are sick.

Each year, there are about 2,500 reported norovirus outbreaks in the United States. Most norovirus outbreaks happen when infected people spread the virus to others through direct contact. Norovirus outbreaks have been reported in many settings. Some of the most commonly reported outbreak settings are listed below.

Diagnostic methods for norovirus testing focus on detecting viral RNA (genetic material) or viral antigen. RT-qPCR assays are the preferred diagnostic method to detect norovirus. EIA tests should not replace RT-qPCR during outbreak investigations; they are not recommended for testing single samples from sporadic cases.

Norovirus is a commonly reported cause of diarrhea among travelers in confined spaces (e.g., on cruise ships, and in camps, dormitories, hotels). Risk for infection is present anywhere food is prepared in an unsanitary manner and can be contaminated, or where drinking water is inadequately treated.

May 7, 2020 · Norovirus is the most common cause of outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in the United States (1,2). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) collects data on AGE outbreaks through the National Outbreak Reporting System (NORS).

May 8, 2024 · Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness outbreaks in the United States. Norovirus causes about half of all outbreaks of food-related illness. Most reported norovirus outbreaks are caused by people who touch or prepare food when they are sick, or sometimes by food that comes from contaminated water.