Caroline Kee is a health reporter at TODAY based in New York City.
Norovirus, the infamous wintertime stomach bug, is slowly on the rise in the United States. Cases and outbreaks of the virus surged in early 2023, peaking in February and March. Although norovirus activity has remained low since the summer, experts warn that it is expected to increase as the winter and holiday season approaches.
Now that pandemic restrictions have relaxed and many children and adults have given up measures like distancing or masking, the number of norovirus outbreaks has returned to levels similar to pre-pandemic years, the experts note. The post-pandemic tourism boom may have also played a role. As travel increases, travel-related illnesses are expected to surge, as well, said Ostrosky. “I think our travel frenzy after COVID is partially fueling this continued spread ,” Ostrosky said. 'I think ...