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Brevard County residents, along with much of Central Florida, are battling what health officials are calling the worst norovirus outbreak ever recorded during this time of year. People are falling ill at an alarming rate, and the virus is spreading fast. If you’ve noticed friends, family, or coworkers suddenly getting violently sick, you’re not alone.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a nasty virus that spreads like wildfire. It’s one of the leading causes of stomach illnesses in the U.S., often striking out of nowhere and leaving people miserable for days. It spreads through direct contact with infected people, contaminated food or water, or even touching surfaces where the virus lingers.
This bug doesn’t play around—just a tiny amount can make you sick, and it spreads easily in places like schools, nursing homes, restaurants, and anywhere people gather.
How Do You Know It’s Norovirus?
If you’re feeling fine one minute and suddenly hit with vomiting, diarrhea, or severe stomach cramps, chances are you’ve got it. Other symptoms might include:
• Nausea
• Fever or chills
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
The symptoms usually come on fast and furious, lasting about 1-3 days. But don’t let your guard down once you feel better; you’re still contagious for a couple of days after the symptoms stop.
Why Is This Outbreak So Bad?
Right now, Brevard County hospitals and clinics are seeing a significant spike in cases, and local schools are reporting higher-than-usual absentee rates. Similar trends are popping up all over Central Florida. Health officials are calling this outbreak unprecedented, and it’s putting a strain on the community.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
Here’s the deal: preventing norovirus takes effort, but it’s doable.
• Wash Your Hands—A Lot. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizers won’t cut it with this bug.
• Clean Everything. Disinfect surfaces with bleach-based cleaners, especially if someone in your home is sick.
• Handle Food Safely. Wash fruits and veggies thoroughly and cook seafood to at least 145°F.
• Stay Home When You’re Sick. If you’re feeling symptoms, don’t go to work, school, or anywhere else where you might spread the virus.
What To Do If You Catch It
Unfortunately, there’s no magic cure for norovirus. The best you can do is manage the symptoms and wait it out:
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. Dehydration is a big concern, so sip on water or electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte.
• Take It Easy. Rest as much as you can.
• Stay Away From Others. Don’t prepare food or care for others until at least 48 hours after you’re feeling better.
The Bottom Line
This outbreak is serious, and it’s affecting people across Brevard and beyond. The best defense is prevention, so take hygiene seriously and look out for your health and the health of those around you.
If you suspect you have norovirus and can’t keep fluids down or feel severely dehydrated, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Stay safe, Brevard, and let’s do our part to stop the spread.
