Norovirus cases are likely to increase in the U.S., according to the latest surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just last week, about 14% of laboratory tests came back positive for norovirus, double the rate from three months ago, while many states are now experiencing relatively high case numbers. These early indicators suggest that the US will experience a harsh norovirus winter for the second year in a row.
stomach flu on the rise
Although norovirus is often associated with cruise ships, it is a ubiquitous and highly contagious foodborne pathogen. And it has been increasing recently.
For example, between August 2024 and July 2025, the CDC recorded at least 2,675 outbreaks in the US, nearly double the number reported in the same period last year (1,478). More recently, in the fall, the outbreak seemed to be slowing down again. But norovirus is especially prevalent during the winter, as more people spend time indoors, and early data doesn’t look good for relief.
The 14% test positivity rate this mid-November is right around the rate seen during the same period last year. In December 2024, the country experienced a record-breaking surge of norovirus, with the highest testing rate at around 25%. According to Epic Research’s data tracker, Wyoming, Nebraska and Oklahoma are currently reporting the highest number of norovirus cases.
What to do about noro?
Of course, there’s no guarantee that norovirus will reach or surpass the peaks seen last year this winter. But even relatively mild weather will lead to gastrointestinal distress. Annually, norovirus causes about 20 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea in the US and although it is rarely fatal, the disease still sends about 100,000 Americans to the hospital each year.
Given all this, it would always be wise to do everything you can to reduce the risk of contracting stomach flu and spreading it to others.
For example, you should always wash fruits and vegetables and cook shellfish thoroughly. You should also clean your kitchen utensils, cutting boards and surfaces, especially after preparing shellfish. And you should wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw food, because norovirus or other food-borne germs can be spread by your hands later unknowingly touching your mouth.
And if you’re feeling nauseous, you should avoid direct contact with people if possible and frequently wash your hands with soap and water (hand sanitizer won’t work against norovirus).
All of this is easier said than done when it comes to Thanksgiving and the upcoming holidays. But as anyone who has suffered from norovirus can attest, it’s an experience you should try to avoid as much as possible. Speaking personally, I’m hoping that scientists finally figure out how to make an effective norovirus vaccine as soon as possible.
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