Norovirus Map Shows Where Levels Are High Across US
Summary
A new wastewater map tracks the spread of norovirus, a highly contagious stomach virus, across the United States. The map shows elevated levels of the virus in many regions, indicating ongoing transmission beyond its usual winter peak.Key Facts
- Norovirus causes sudden vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.
- It spreads easily through contaminated food, surfaces, water, and close contact with infected people.
- The virus most often spreads in colder months, from November to April, but levels remain high in some areas even as temperatures warm.
- Young children and older adults are more at risk of severe illness from norovirus.
- Wastewater surveillance monitors virus levels in sewage to track community spread, including unreported cases.
- The WastewaterSCAN program shows medium to high norovirus activity in the Midwest, Northeast, West, and South.
- Symptoms usually start within 1 to 2 days of exposure and last 1 to 3 days.
- Dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea is the main serious risk, especially for vulnerable groups.
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