Norovirus is highly contagious and causes vomiting and diarrhea. But, in the overwhelming majority of cases, people recover with no lasting consequences.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, rang in 2025 in a big way across the United States, and continues to surge. The highly contagious virus causes vomiting and diarrhea, and a record number of outbreaks have been reported for this time of year, according to recent data.

Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others by direct means, such as through sharing food or eating utensils.

Norovirus outbreaks are common throughout the year, but prevalent from November to April. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said this year's number of reported norovirus outbreaks has exceeded the numbers in the recent years before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cases of norovirus are surging in the United States. It’s the country’s leading cause of foodborne illnesses but there have been even more outbreaks than usual recently — hitting schools, holiday gatherings and cruise ships.

LANDSTUHL, Germany - Cases of norovirus, a wretched and highly contagious stomach bug, are surging in parts of the United States and Europe this

Health experts told Newsweek about the threats posed by the viruses and shared the best ways to protect oneself.

Norovirus is a very contagious virus causing vomiting and diarrhea. It's not related to the flu despite being commonly referred to as 'stomach flu.'

The highly contagious stomach bug calls for “enhanced precautions” — the highest level of cleaning.

At Jefferson of New Jersey — which has three emergency locations in Cherry Hill, Turnersville and Stratford — there has been an uptick in norovirus cases, according to Dr. Henry Schuitema, chief of emergency medicine Jefferson.

Norovirus infections can occur at any time of year, but they tend to peak during the colder winter months—that happens every year. It is important to note that we do not know