Norovirus Surge: Local Doctor Reports Spike in Cases; Survivor Shares Harrowing Experience

NORTON SHORES, Mich. — Norovirus, often referred to as a "stomach bug," is making headlines as local health officials observe a concerning rise in cases over the past week. Dr. Asha Shajahan, a family physician at Corewell Health East, has noted a significant uptick in reported infections, particularly at this time of year when the virus is known to thrive.

In response to an appeal for personal stories, one woman, Jayme Monroe, shared her own terrifying encounter with the virus that left her bedridden for ten days. "I had been vomiting for, like, seven hours straight, through the night. It was terrible—like, it was just one after another," she recalled, illustrating the debilitating force of the illness.

Norovirus symptoms typically surface abruptly, often just 12 hours after exposure, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Jayme experienced this firsthand: “I was working from home and suddenly started to feel warmer. After a meeting, I checked my temperature—it was 101.8. It hit me very suddenly."

Dr. Shajahan emphasized that norovirus can lead to intense gastrointestinal distress including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea—symptoms that usually last around three days. However, anyone enduring these symptoms for longer should seek medical attention.

The increase in cases is alarming. In 2023, Michigan saw fewer than 1,000 reports of norovirus, but by 2024, that figure has surged to nearly 1,400 cases. “Usually, we see this kind of outbreak in the winter months, but we’ve observed an unusual spike in a very short time,” Dr. Shajahan noted.

To prevent infection, experts advise rigorous handwashing with soap and water, as hand sanitizers might not sufficiently eliminate the virus. “Some hand sanitizers don’t do the job against norovirus, so it’s crucial to use soap and water thoroughly,” she explained.

The virus can spread through contaminated food, surfaces, and even from person to person when hygiene protocols are not followed after exposure to vomit or fecal matter. During outbreaks, vigilance is essential, and maintaining cleanliness in both personal and communal spaces can help mitigate the spread.

As the community grapples with this surge in norovirus cases, health authorities urge everyone to stay informed and practice stringent hygiene measures to protect themselves and others.