Title: The Resurgence of Norovirus in the United States: A Cause for Concern? The recent surge in norovirus cases across the United States has raised concerns among health experts as nearly 14% of tests came back positive during the most recent week ending Nov. 15, compared to roughly 7% about three months ago. This increase is particularly alarming given that last December saw a record-breaking rate of norovirus cases in the U.S., with almost 25% of tests returning positive results. Norovirus, often referred to as the “stomach bug” or “stomach flu,” is a highly contagious virus responsible for causing viral gastroenteritis – an inflammation of the inside lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Although it’s not related to influenza, norovirus remains the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., accounting for 58% of such cases each year and causing approximately 2,5000 outbreaks annually according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The resurgence of this virus raises several questions about its potential implications on public health. Firstly, it highlights the need for increased awareness among individuals regarding proper hygiene practices during times when norovirus cases are high. This includes frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected persons, and disinfecting surfaces regularly to prevent further spread of the virus. Secondly, this development underscores the importance of investing in robust surveillance systems that can accurately track changes in infection rates over time. Such data would enable public health officials to anticipate potential outbreaks more effectively and allocate resources accordingly. From a historical perspective, norovirus has always been a significant concern for public health authorities due to its high contagiousness and ability to spread rapidly within communities. However, the recent surge in cases suggests that we may be witnessing an uptick in transmission rates or perhaps even new strains of the virus emerging. In conclusion, while norovirus is not a novel threat by any means, the current resurgence warrants heightened vigilance from both individuals and public health authorities alike. By staying informed about best practices for prevention and control, we can help mitigate the impact of this highly contagious virus on our communities.
Source: [Original Article](https://abcnews.go.com/Health/us-cases-norovirus-rise-double-rate-positive-tests/story?id=127872876)
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