Norovirus cases in Chicago are surging right now, mirroring a trend impacting much of the U.S.
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that instances of the highly contagious virus, typically known as the stomach bug, increased dramatically in December of 2024.
Here’s everything you need to know about the outbreaks, as well as treating and preventing the virus.
Highest outbreak of Norovirus cases in decades
The CDC documented 91 reports of Norovirus outbreaks nationwide during the first week of December, the highest number of reports in over a decade.
30 cases of the virus were reported in Cook County in December, according to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH).
The winter months are the worst time for Norovirus outbreaks, with cases typically spiking each year between December and March.
What is Norovirus and how does it spread?
Noroviruses are a group of easily transmissible viruses found in human waste. The virus is spread through contact with infected people and contaminated surfaces.
For instance, if you shake hands with an infected person and then touch your mouth, or a piece of food you’re eating, you can become infected with the disease.
Humans can also catch the virus by consuming raw shellfish, unwashed produce, and contaminated water.
What are the symptoms and effects of Norovirus?
Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis according to the CDC, or inflammation of the stomach.
Symptoms typically include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. Other signs of the virus include dehydration, fever, loss of appetite, and malaise.
Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 48 hours after contact with an infected person or surface.
How to care for yourself if you get sick
While there’s no specific course of treatment for Norovirus, experts recommend getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids if one falls ill.
The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking electrolyte beverages and avoiding caffeinated or highly sugary fluids as these can make symptoms worse.
As one’s condition improves, experts recommend eating simple bland foods like bananas, toast, rice, and soda crackers until symptoms fully subside.
How dangerous is Norovirus?
Generally, Norovirus is not a major cause for concern, as the illness usually resolves itself within 1 to 3 days.
However, those with compromised immune systems, and vulnerable populations like children and the elderly may are susceptible to more severe infection.
The Cleveland Clinic recommends contacting a medical provider if symptoms of Norovirus do not improve within three days.
How to protect yourself against infection
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself against Norovirus is to wash your hands, especially after using the bathroom, caring for a sick person, or shaking hands.
Cleaning potentially contaminated surfaces can also reduce the risk of infection, according to the CCDPH. Additionally, the department recommends thoroughly washing produce and cooking shellfish.
Sick people should also avoid contact with others while affected to prevent spreading the disease.