Norovirus Cases Surge in North Texas: What You Need to Know
A highly contagious stomach virus is spreading rapidly through North Texas classrooms and workplaces, prompting concern among local doctors who anticipate a further increase in cases this month. The virus, commonly mistaken for the “stomach flu,” is known as norovirus and spreads quickly through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, often striking unexpectedly.
While multiple states are reporting significant increases in outbreaks, Texas does not currently share case data with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hindering efforts to accurately track local trends. Despite the lack of statewide figures, signs of the virus’s spread are already evident at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth. Between November 30 and December 6, the hospital’s laboratory data revealed that 24% of norovirus tests – 38 out of 157 samples – came back positive.
“It’s a very common viral illness that tends to show up more in the winter and early spring,” explained Dr. Samson Cantu, a gastroenterologist at Cook Children’s. “Some years are worse than others depending on the strain, but this season we are definitely seeing it a little more often than usual.”
How Does Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus is characterized by sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea, earning it the nickname “winter vomiting bug” due to its tendency to spread when people congregate indoors during colder months. According to medical professionals, the virus transmits easily through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces, as well as through close contact with an infected individual.
Even a small amount of viral particles can cause illness, and the CDC notes that the virus can survive on surfaces for days, contributing to outbreaks in settings like schools, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.
Current Prevalence of Norovirus
From August through mid-November, the CDC recorded over 150 outbreaks across the 14 states participating in its national NoroSTAT tracking system. Because Texas is not part of this network, comprehensive statewide data is unavailable. However, local physicians report a noticeable rise in stomach-related illnesses.
Dr. Cantu confirmed that Cook Children’s has been treating several children exhibiting symptoms consistent with the virus. “I’ve helped manage a handful of patients who are actively infected,” he said. “There’s no antibiotic for it, so it really comes down to supportive care like keeping kids hydrated and managing symptoms.” Recent lab data from the hospital reinforces this trend, with approximately one in four tests returning positive during the first week of December.
Recognizing Norovirus Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear one to two days after exposure and last for two to three days. Common indicators include nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, a mild fever, and body aches.
Dr. Cantu emphasized the importance of monitoring hydration levels, particularly in children. “Most children can be treated safely at home, but if they stop producing urine or their energy level drops, that’s when we start to get concerned about dehydration,” he stated. The virus poses a greater risk to young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The CDC estimates that norovirus causes more than 100,000 hospitalizations and several hundred deaths annually in the United States.
Treatment and Management
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for norovirus. Medical professionals recommend prioritizing rest, fluid intake, and oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes.
“Hydration is key,” Dr. Cantu reiterated. “If a child can’t keep fluids down, or you notice they’re not urinating, that’s when it’s time to contact your pediatrician or head to the hospital.” Experts advise against using over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication unless specifically directed by a doctor, as it may potentially prolong symptoms.
Preventing Infection
Norovirus is highly contagious, but simple preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Dr. Cantu stressed the paramount importance of hand hygiene: “Hand hygiene, hand hygiene, hand hygiene,” he said. “Soap and water are your best defense. Make sure to wash really well, especially when cleaning up after a sick child.”
Additional recommendations include:
- Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or preparing food.
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with bleach-based cleaners.
- Thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables before consumption.
- Staying home for at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided.
- Avoiding food preparation for others while sick or recovering.
The CDC advises that alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective against norovirus than traditional handwashing with soap and water.
This story was originally published December 10, 2025, at 2:48 PM.
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Tiffani Jackson is a service journalism reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She is part of a team of local journalists who answer reader questions about life in North Texas. Tiffani mainly writes about Texas laws and health news.
