Norovirus Cases on the Rise in U.S.

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - December figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest norovirus is surging in the United States, reaching its highest levels for this time of year in over a decade.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded 91 outbreaks reported during the week of December 5, up from 69 the last week of November. While that increase may be due to more monitoring, it could also be more gatherings for the holidays, with doctors recommending that people practice good hygiene, keep surfaces clean, and wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.

Dr. William Schaffner is an infectious disease specialist at the Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville. He says Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborn illness in the U.S. 

Schaffner says Norovirus is easily spread and symptoms come on quick with vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, body aches and fever. It's especially dangerous for the elderly, the very young and those with weakened immune systems.