As Michigan residents prepare to ring in the new year, watch out for the stomach bug. The CDC reported 91 cases of norovirus the week of Dec. 5, which is over double the highest number recorded between 2021 and 2024.Locally, the Michigan Disease Surveillance System reported 1,395 norovirus cases in 2024, higher than the previous four […]
As Michigan residents prepare to ring in the new year, watch out for the stomach bug.
The CDC reported 91 cases of norovirus the week of Dec. 5, which is over double the highest number recorded between 2021 and 2024.Locally, the Michigan Disease Surveillance System reported 1,395 norovirus cases in 2024, higher than the previous four years, though similar to cases reported in 2022. There were 16 cases reported the week of Dec. 21.People who fall ill with norovirus typically recover within one to three days, per the CDC. However, the individual can still spread the virus for a few days after.
The stomach flu, or viral gastroenteritis, is a viral infection of the stomach and intestines, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
What is norovirus?
Here are the common symptoms of the stomach flu:
Norovirus is a group of viruses that causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines, per the CDC. Norovirus is common and highly contagious and is the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea and foodborne illness nationwide, the CDC said.
What are common symptoms of norovirus?
People of all ages can catch norovirus. Children under 5 years old, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to get severe infections, the CDC said.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Body aches
What is the stomach flu?
Cases of norovirus, a contagious infection causing vomiting and diarrhea, have increased this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What are the common symptoms of the stomach flu?
More:Do I have a cold, the flu or COVID-19? Here’s how to tell the difference
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Loss of appetite
What is the difference between norovirus and the stomach flu?
Norovirus causes gastroenteritis, an illness sometimes called the stomach flu. However, gastroenteritis is not related to the flu. The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus.
How does norovirus spread?
Here are some common symptoms of norovirus:
- Coming into close contact with someone who has norovirus.
- Eating or drinking contaminated food or beverages.
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth or nose.
Who is at risk for norovirus?
The U.S. tends to see norovirus outbreaks between November and April, per the Cleveland Clinic.
How long does norovirus last?
Norovirus is very contagious, per the Cleveland Clinic. Here are several ways the illness spreads:
When is peak norovirus season?
Here are steps to prevent the spread of norovirus in Michigan this season:
How can you prevent the spread of norovirus?
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
- Wash your hands well and often, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.
- Stay home when sick for 48 hours after symptoms stop.
- Wash laundry in hot water.
- Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.
USA Today contributed to this report.
Here’s what to know.
