Norovirus on the rise in the US, here’s how to protect yourself
Jan 1, 2025, 6:09 PM
FILE - This electron microscope image provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a cluster of norovirus virions. (Charles D. Humphrey/CDC via AP, File)
Credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS
(Charles D. Humphrey/CDC via AP, File)
SALT LAKE CITY — Outbreaks of norovirus are on the rise in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. While there hasn’t been a surge locally, health officials still say Utahns should take steps to protect themselves.
The CDC reported 91 outbreaks of the virus in the U.S. in the first week of December alone.
Doctors believe those numbers are less than the reality as many cities don’t report on norovirus. The virus, often referred to as the stomach flu, is spread through direct contact with others and kills an average of 900 Americans each year.
Salt Lake County Health Department spokesperson Nicholas Rupp said the number of norovirus cases in Salt Lake County is normal for this time of year.
But the virus is very contagious, and Rupp said people should take precautions to keep from spreading the illness.
“Bleach-based cleaners, washing your hands and then not preparing food for others when you’re feeling ill,” Rupp said.
He emphasized the importance of properly washing your hands.
“You need to be washing your hands with soap and water and scrubbing them and actually sloughing off those viral particles, those germs, because you’re not going to kill it with alcohol-based hand sanitizers.”
And finally, if you feel sick, stay home.
Heather Kelly contributed to the reporting of this story.
