Why are children more affected by norovirus?

Norovirus, also known as “stomach flu,” is registering a significant rebound in the United States, with children under 5 years old as the most vulnerable population.

This virus is responsible for up to one million pediatric emergency room visits each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Its high contagiousness and the conditions in which it proliferates make it a recurring threat, especially in environments such as schools and daycares.

Below, we break down how to recognize this disease, why it affects children the most, and what steps to take to prevent its spread.

What is norovirus?

norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The most common symptoms include:

* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Abdominal pain
* Mild fever

Although it is called the “stomach flu,” this condition is not related to the flu caused by the influenza virus. Most people recover in one to 3 days, but the virus can continue to spread through feces and vomit for several days after symptoms appear.

Norovirus is particularly concerning because It can survive on contaminated surfaces for long periods of time and resist many common disinfectants. This makes it especially problematic in closed, crowded spaces.

Why does norovirus affect children more?

Children under 5 years old are especially vulnerable to norovirus for several reasons:

1) Immature immune system: It is still developing, which makes them more susceptible to severe infections.
2) Hygiene habits: Young children tend to touch contaminated surfaces and frequently put their hands in their mouths, increasing the risk of infection.
3) Environments conducive to the virus: Spaces such as daycares and schools facilitate transmission due to close contact between minors.

Lisa Cooper, a microbologist at the University of California, explains: “Children touch everything and put their hands in their mouths more frequently than adults, which increases the risk of infection.”

According to the CDC, norovirus is responsible for 2,270,000 outpatient visits annually, the majority in young children. In this age group:

* 1 in 160 will require hospitalization
*1 in 110,000 dies due to complications such as severe dehydration

One of the main risks of norovirus is dehydration, which can be particularly dangerous in children. Signs of dehydration include:

* Extreme fatigue
* Dry mouth and throat
*Reduced urine production
* Dizziness
*Drowsiness or irritability

According to the Mayo Clinic, “dehydrated children may cry with few or no tears and become unusually sleepy.” If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.

The impact of the current norovirus outbreak

In December 2024, 22.28% of the 1,940 people tested for norovirus tested positive, reflecting a worrying increase in cases. The CDC anticipates the outbreak will continue through the first weeks of 2025.

Every year, norovirus illnesses in the US. generate losses of approximately $2,000 million dollars due to healthcare costs and loss of work productivity.

Measures to prevent the spread of norovirus

Preventing norovirus is key to reducing the burden on health systems and protecting children. The main measures include:

Correct hand washing:

* Use soap and water.

* Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing a baby’s diaper, or before eating.

* Avoid relying exclusively on hand sanitizers, as they are less effective against norovirus.

Surface disinfection:

* Regularly clean toys, tables, doorknobs and other frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant solutions effective against viruses.

Avoid sharing utensils and food:

* Teach children not to share glasses, bottles or cutlery.

* Keep sick children at home:

* Do not send children to school if they have norovirus symptoms.

This principle not only protects other children, but also teachers and school staff, who may also be affected.

Libby Richards, a nursing professor at Purdue University, points out: “When sick children attend school, they not only infect their classmates, but also affect the quality of education due to faculty attrition.”

With these measures, it is possible to protect children and minimize the impact of this highly contagious disease.

Keep reading:

* Health alert: oysters removed from the market due to norovirus risk in Washington
* CDC warns of norovirus outbreak or “stomach flu”: How to recognize its symptoms
* Take care of yourself and you will avoid the new stomach virus