What are the symptoms of the ‘stomach flu’ spreading around the country now?

Norovirus – more commonly called the stomach flu – is at a seasonal high across the US, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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According to the CDC, the rate of norovirus tests coming back positive, averaged over three weeks, was up 15% from the previous three-week period. The rate is the highest recorded since late March 2022.

“Norovirus outbreaks and reported cases from both state health departments and clinical laboratories are increasing but remain within the expected range for this time of year,” said Kate Grusich, a CDC spokesperson.

“Prevention measures implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic were likely effective in preventing norovirus outbreaks. As pandemic restrictions have relaxed, the number of norovirus outbreaks has returned to levels similar to pre-pandemic years,” she added.

The highest average for a positive test of the virus over the past three weeks was in the Midwest.

The highly contagious virus is spread through hand contact, water, food and on surfaces.

What are the symptoms?

Norovirus causes gastrointestinal symptoms that include:

Diarrhea

Vomiting

Nausea

Stomach pain

Fever

Headache

Body aches

Can you do anything to prevent it?

The CDC offers these suggestions to protect yourself and others from norovirus:

Wash your hands often.

Rinse fruits and vegetables.

Cook shellfish thoroughly.

Stay home when sick and for two days after symptoms stop.

Avoid preparing food for others when sick and for two days after symptoms stop.

How long does it last?

Most people recover from norovirus in 1 or 2 days and have no long-term health effects, the CDC said. Dehydration can be a concern in the very young, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems, the agency said.

Outbreak in the UK

According to Reuters, Norovirus cases in England have risen “significantly” to their highest levels in a decade, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported.

“The number of people in hospitals with norovirus has risen significantly in line with what we are seeing in the community and in care homes,” NHS Medical Director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said.