Tampa Bay residents are reporting a wave of severe stomach illness as norovirus cases climb across the United States. Local social media channels are filled with reports of entire families battling the highly contagious virus, which causes intense bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.
The surge aligns with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data showing a significant increase in norovirus outbreaks nationwide. The CDC reported 91 outbreaks in early December, marking a substantial rise from 69 outbreaks in late November and 32 in mid-November.
Tampa residents have described severe cases affecting entire households. “My whole family just had it,” shared one local resident who required emergency room treatment due to dehydration and muscle pain after prolonged vomiting. Another family had to cancel their Christmas travel plans after multiple household members contracted the virus.
A crucial prevention reminder circulating in local discussions: hand sanitizer doesn’t kill norovirus. Hand washing with soap and water is essential for prevention. The virus spreads through contaminated food, surfaces, or direct contact with infected individuals.
Symptoms typically include severe vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. While most people recover within a few days, dehydration can become dangerous, particularly for young children and elderly adults.
The CDC notes that norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, with outbreaks occurring across all age groups, though children under five and elderly adults are particularly vulnerable.