Cold, flu and norovirus: Why everyone seems sick right now

ATLANTA - If you or someone you know has been feeling under the weather recently, you're not alone. Cold and flu season is in full swing across the United States, with some illnesses spreading at alarming rates.

The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that cases of norovirus—commonly known as the stomach bug—have doubled compared to this time last year. The virus is infamous for causing symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting along with body aches, stomach pain, headaches, and fever. 

Norovirus numbers up… way up

In the week of Dec. 5, there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus, up from 69 the previous week. In the same period in recent years, there were generally 65 cases or less each week. Outbreaks are generally seen on cruise ships, nursing homes, schools and jails. 

Although that may not seem like a lot, most cases are not reported. The virus is also extremely contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or along contaminated surfaces. That means you may want to be extra careful about sharing food and drinks with others right now. 

Fortunately, most people improve within one to two days and recover completely with no long-term health effects. However, there are some people who may become severely ill because they are unable to keep down fluids and become very dehydrated. 

Flu numbers also rising

According to the latest flu data from the CDC, there have been between 3.1 and 5.4 million cases of flu as of Dec. 21, 2024, with 37,000 to 76,000 hospitalizations, and 1,500 to 7,200 deaths. During the 2023-2024 flu season, the CDC estimated 28,000 people died from the flu, including 199 children. Eleven children have died so far this season.

 It is not possible to know the exact number of people who have experienced the flu in the U.S. because not everyone who gets sick will seek medical care or be tested for influenza. Therefore, the CDC uses mathematical models to estimate the impact of flu on the population based on the data that it has each year. 

Blame the pandemic

Doctors suggest the current surge in illnesses could be linked to the pandemic's impact on immune systems. Social distancing measures effectively curbed the spread of COVID-19 but also suppressed exposure to other viruses. Now that life has returned to normal, immune systems may not be fully prepared to fend off infections.

"All of a sudden, the viruses are having a heyday. They have people who aren't necessarily primed or even slightly immune to these illnesses anymore. And so they can make a lot more people sick and spread like wildfire. And that's kind of what you're seeing right now," one expert explained.

Take precautions

To reduce your chances of getting sick this season, experts recommend wearing face masks, staying up to date on vaccinations, rigorous and frequent handwashing, and prioritizing rest and adequate sleep.