Are you feeling queasy? You're not alone. The U.S. is currently grappling with a shocking spike in norovirus cases, leaving many Americans feeling ill in what appears to be a widespread outbreak.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a staggering 91 outbreaks of norovirus were reported during the first week of December. To put this in context, that's an unprecedented number for this time of year, marking the highest activity we've seen since 2012.

Norovirus, often dubbed the "stomach flu," brings on severe bouts of vomiting and diarrhea which, although unpleasant, typically pass within a short time. This virus traditionally flourishes in winter months, only to decline as temperatures rise. However, this year's outbreak is exhibiting a fiercer pattern, with occurrences surfacing earlier and more aggressively than we've experienced during both the pandemic and pre-pandemic years.

As of late December, a concerning 23% of individuals tested across a sample of clinical labs were positive for norovirus—significantly exceeding the usual seasonal peak of 10 to 15%. Yet, experts are warning that the CDC’s numbers may not accurately reflect the full extent of the outbreak. Lee-Ann Jaykus, microbiologist and director of NoroCORE at North Carolina State University, emphasizes that the agency's sampling is limited and might miss countless unreported cases.

The surge in norovirus cases might not simply be due to more individuals seeking medical attention. Robert Atmar, a researcher at Baylor College of Medicine, suggests that “there is an increase in medically attended visits and infections,” indicating a real increase in cases rather than just better reporting or awareness.

So, why is this happening? One critical factor is that societal behaviors during the pandemic dramatically reduced immunity levels toward the virus. With masking and social distancing easing, the population is now more vulnerable. Furthermore, the duration of immunity from norovirus infections is typically short, lasting just a couple of years.

There’s speculation that a new variant of norovirus could be contributing to the surge, as past new strains have led to widespread outbreaks. While genetic analyses conducted by the CDC haven’t revealed any major changes yet, experts are monitoring the situation closely.

Prevention is vital during this unsettling season. The best approach to guard against norovirus spread includes practicing good hand hygiene—wash with soap and water, especially after using the restroom or preparing food. Cleaning surfaces with bleach-based products is also essential, as this virus can persist on surfaces for weeks, requiring thorough disinfection.

If you do contract this relentless virus, staying hydrated is crucial. Sipping on water or electrolyte beverages every 15-30 minutes can help mitigate symptoms. Opt for bland foods when your appetite returns, like bananas and toast.

Currently, there is no effective treatment for norovirus; it typically resolves on its own in a matter of days. However, if symptoms worsen, such as persistent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or dehydration, medical advice should be sought.

As for a long-term solution, a vaccine for norovirus remains a work in progress. Researchers are leveraging both mRNA technology and traditional methods to create a vaccine, but challenges abound. The FDA demands a broad-coverage vaccine for the many strains of norovirus, and there’s been difficulty achieving enduring immunity beyond a couple of years.

Experts estimate that an effective norovirus vaccine may be available in three to five years, prioritizing vulnerable populations like infants and elderly individuals in nursing homes who are most at risk of severe outcomes. Until then, the general public will have to wait for a solution that could ultimately diminish the misery that norovirus brings each winter.

Stay vigilant, keep those hands clean, and be wary of the virus that lurks, especially during this peak season!