Outbreaks of norovirus have been increasing since January, says the CDC.

COVID-19 cases continue to fall across the United States; but don't hold your breath just yet, because, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), another virus is seeing an uptick in cases. The norovirus, the bug responsible for the stomach flu, is up to pre-pandemic levels.

Some medical professionals believe the spread of norovirus may be partially due to COVID restrictions lifting. BUT, there is no data to suggest that the norovirus outbreaks are in any way linked to coronavirus.

Dr. Robert Atmar, a professor of medicine and infectious diseases expert at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, told NBC News that he "suspects the increase in outbreaks may be a reflection of loosened Covid mitigation strategies nationwide."

The CDC reports that from August 1, 2021, through March 5, 2022, there were 448 outbreaks of norovirus reported. However, in comparison to that same time last year, there were only 78 norovirus outbreaks reported by the same states.

States' health departments that have reported outbreaks (from August through March) include Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Norovirus is a contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It is easily transmittable through surfaces and through contaminated food/water.

"The concentration of virus in stool samples is pretty high, so it doesn't take much microscopic contamination to infect people," Dr. Atmar said.

What are the symptoms of norovirus?

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches

How do you avoid contracting the norovirus?

  • Practice proper hygiene
    • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
  • Handle/prepare food safely
    • Wash fruits/vegetables
    • Cook oysters/other shellfish thoroughly
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces
    • Use bleach-based household cleaners as directed
  • Wash laundry thoroughly

Have you or a loved one been affected by the dreaded stomach flu lately? Sound off in the comments below.