Norovirus positivity rate hits 28%, double 2024's peak: 6 notes

A surge in norovirus infections this season has resulted in a 28% positivity rate, more than double 2024's high, alarming health officials, CBS News reported Jan. 14. 

The unprecedented spike is a part of a broader viral surge as the U.S. grapples with four major viruses — norovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza and COVID-19. Hospitals across the country are also feeling the strain, as emergency departments struggle to accommodate the rising number of patients. 

Here are five more notes: 

  1. The norovirus positivity rate surged to 28% the week of the New Year's holiday, more than double the 13.5% peak from last year, according to CDC data. This marks the highest rate in over a decade. 

  2. The Midwest and Northeast regions are seeing the highest transmission levels. Kansas, Michigan, Ohio and Minnesota are facing particularly high rates. 

  3. Experts identify the new norovirus strain, Gll.17[P17], as the primary driver behind this surge. The strain has displaced the previous prominent strain, fueling rapid spread of the virus. The CDC notes the strains account for 70% of outbreaks this season. 

  4. U.S. hospitals are feeling significant pressure, with reports of emergency departments operating at full capacity, especially in Minnesota. The state is experiencing the highest flu-related admissions in five years and some hospitals have resorted to repurposing surgical and mental health beds to accommodate the influx of patients. 

  5. Experts predict that the "quademic" — norovirus, syncytial virus, influenza and COVID-19 — could worsen as hospitals are already overwhelmed. With more outbreaks likely, health systems are implementing stricter protocols including visitor restrictions and increased coordination between hospitals to maintain trauma care capacity.

You can unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information, please review our Privacy Policy
.
 

Copyright © 2025 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Articles We Think You'll Like