Norovirus outbreak: How long are people contagious after Norovirus infection? What we know as case surge across US

November to April is usually the season for Norovirus outbreaks in the United States. According to recent reports based on CDC data, the U.S. has had about 455 Norovirus outbreaks since September of this year. Amid this outbreak here is some information about the disease to help you understand the disease

According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, Norovirus is a group of viruses previously known as Norwalk virus or Norwalk-like virus that causes gastroenteritis in people.

The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person, as well as by coming in contact with infected surfaces or contaminated foods. Once exposed the symptoms tend to appear between 24- 48 hours, though they may show as early as 10 hours.

According to the CDC, congested and populated spaces like nursing homes, schools, jails, health care centers, and cruise ships are the most common settings for norovirus outbreaks. In rare cases, consumption of raw oysters and other raw food items like lettuce can also result in outbreaks.

Though not usually a life-threatening disease, the symptoms associated with the disease are said to make people feel very sick; mainly due to dehydration from two of its common symptoms vomiting and Diarrhea. The disease often lasts for two to three days.

Other common symptoms associated with Norovirus infection include nausea and stomach cramping. But some may also display symptoms like a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. However, a person affected by the virus may not display all these symptoms.

A person infected with the virus is said to be contagious for about three days after full recovery, so it is important to ensure that you don't share utensils or food with the infected person. Practicing personal hygiene and avoiding contaminated water and food are important ways to avoid getting infected.

December's first week saw the most outbreaks of Norovirus in parts of the U.S.

According to reports, citing the data from the U.S. Department of Disease Prevention and Control, there has been an increase in the Norovirus outbreak from the last week of November (which saw 69 cases) to the first week of December (which saw almost 91 cases).

Norovirus outbreaks are not uncommon in the country and according to the CDC, about 2500 cases are reported in the country every year. But, according to the Economic Times, there is a significant increase in the number of outbreaks reported in early December this year(about 91 cases) compared to previous years (which was about 65 outbreaks).