Norovirus cases continue to climb in the US, especially in the Northeast, CDC data shows

Cases of norovirus are increasing in the US, in line with seasonal patterns, according to recent data. In the week ending February 17, over 12% of tests for norovirus came back positive, up from 11.5% the previous week. Positive tests were highest in the Northeast, where over 13% of tests came back positive. However, these levels are lower than last season. Norovirus outbreaks are most common in late fall, winter, and early spring. Norovirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in the US, with millions of cases each year. It spreads through direct contact, contaminated food or liquids, or touching contaminated surfaces. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Preventive measures include handwashing, food hygiene, and cooking shellfish thoroughly. In January, certain oysters from Baja California and Mexico were advised against due to potential norovirus contamination. In December, a sushi restaurant in North Carolina was linked to over 200 suspected norovirus cases.