Highly Contagious “Winter Vomiting Disease” Is Now In Illinois

I know, hearing or reading the words "highly contagious" might bring around some really unpleasant memories of the pandemic, but unlike the pandemic, this particular bug isn't something that you've never heard of before...and you won't be asked to lock-down.

If you’ve been hearing chatter about a nasty stomach bug sweeping Illinois, you’re not imagining it. According to recent reporting, norovirus, also known as the “winter vomiting disease,” is spreading rapidly across our state, showing up in wastewater surveillance and prompting warnings from health-officials.

Norovirus is a fast-moving gastrointestinal virus that typically shows up quickly, with symptoms often beginning within 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Once it hits, you may experience a sudden onset of nausea, frequent, powerful vomiting, stomach cramps, watery, loose, or explosive diarrhea, and sometimes more general effects like low-grade fever, headache or muscle aches.

How Long Does It Last, And How Long Is Someone Contagious?

For most people, the worst tends to pass in 1 to 3 days, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, even after symptoms fade, you may remain contagious for a while longer, most times at least 48 hours after recovery, and in some cases the virus may linger in your stool for a week or more.

Hopkins Medicine says that the virus spreads extremely easily. It can transmit through contaminated food or drinks, touching contaminated surfaces or objects, or close contact with an infected person, even before they begin showing symptoms.

If you suddenly come down with intense vomiting and/or diarrhea, especially after being around a group (holiday gathering, family event, shared meals, school, daycare, etc.), norovirus should definitely be on your radar.

Why Is Illinois Seeing A Spike In The Winter Vomiting Disease?

According to a piece in the Chicago Sun-Times, This season’s spike is arriving earlier than usual. Illinois has already recorded over 100 norovirus outbreaks in just November and December, which is a big jump from past years.  Given the timing this year with holiday gatherings and more indoor socializing, the risk may be especially high.

Hopkins Medicine:

The best defense: wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water (not just sanitizer), particularly before eating or preparing food, and after using the bathroom or handling anything that might be contaminated.

If you or someone in your household gets sick:

Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based or other norovirus-effective cleaner. Wash potentially contaminated linens/clothing in hot water.