What Hoosiers Need to Know
Indiana is seeing a rise in norovirus cases, part of a national surge reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Often called the stomach flu, norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the state, according to the Indiana Department of Health.
Record Numbers Nationwide and in Indiana
The CDC reported 91 norovirus cases during the week of Dec. 5, the highest in years for that time period. Outbreaks have been linked to contaminated food, including oysters, and incidents on cruise ships. Indiana health officials warn residents to remain vigilant as the virus spreads easily during the winter months.
High-Risk Groups
Hoosiers most at risk include young children under 5 and seniors over 85, who are more likely to require medical attention. Symptoms—such as vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps—can appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and usually last one to two days.
How It Spreads
Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread through:
- Eating contaminated food or touching contaminated surfaces.
- Close contact with an infected person.
- Failing to wash hands after touching shared surfaces or changing diapers.
The virus is most active from November to April, and outbreaks are more frequent when new strains emerge.
Prevention Tips for Hoosiers
To protect yourself and others:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Disinfect surfaces, especially in shared spaces.
- Wash laundry in hot water.
- Stay home for at least two days after symptoms end.
Managing Symptoms
If infected, stay hydrated by drinking fluids like Pedialyte or sports drinks. Avoid antibiotics, as they won’t treat the virus. Hoosiers can reduce the spread by not preparing food for others while sick and maintaining good hygiene practices.
For more information, visit the Indiana Department of Health or CDC.gov.
