Cases of norovirus and bird flu are on the rise in the United States, compared to last year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC has reported over 495 norovirus outbreaks among participating states from August 1 to December 11 of this year, compared to 363 outbreaks during the same period last year. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, with severe infections most commonly occurring in children younger than 5 years old, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Several states, including California, Florida, New York, Virginia, and Ohio, have experienced over 10 confirmed outbreaks of norovirus since September of last year.
In addition to norovirus, cases of bird flu have also been on the rise in the U.S., with confirmed human cases in 10 states. Over half of these cases were reported in California. People with occupations that involve exposure to infected birds or other animals, such as farmers, livestock workers, veterinarians, veterinary staff, zoo or wild animal facility workers, and hunters, are at a greater risk of being infected by the bird flu. The CDC has reported 66 human cases of bird flu so far this year, with the first severe case being confirmed on December 18 in Louisiana. The patient was hospitalized after being exposed to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks.
Symptoms of norovirus typically include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, stomach pain, headache, and body aches, which can lead to dehydration. It is important to practice good hygiene and cleanliness to reduce the risk of norovirus exposure, such as washing hands frequently, handling and preparing food safely, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and washing laundry well. While patients usually recover within a few days, norovirus can still spread for two weeks or more after symptoms have subsided.
To reduce the risk of bird flu exposure, people are advised to avoid direct contact with wild birds and unprotected exposure to infected live or dead animals. Additionally, individuals should drink pasteurized milk and avoid consuming raw milk products. Bird flu symptoms include eye redness and irritation, mild fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, and fatigue. The CDC emphasizes that the immediate risk to the public’s health from bird flu remains low, as there has been no person-to-person spread of the H5 bird flu detected.
Physician-scientist Michael Mina has called for a more concerted effort at the federal level to address the rising cases of bird flu, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. The CDC reassures the public that the overall risk of bird flu remains low and has provided guidelines for reducing exposure to both norovirus and bird flu. It is important for individuals to stay informed about these viruses and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their communities from infection.
