Sussex County Faces Norovirus Outbreak, Not Food‑Related

Sussex County health officials have warned residents that a sudden rise in stomach sickness is likely due to norovirus, not contaminated food. The county’s Division of Health began investigating after a spike in complaints of diarrhea, nausea and vomiting from people who ate out between January 30 and February 1. Early results point to norovirus as the culprit. Officials say that community feedback—emails and phone calls—was key in spotting the common symptoms. Norovirus is known for severe vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration in children and the elderly. Each year it causes about 900 deaths, mostly among adults over 65, according to the CDC. The virus shows up quickly, with symptoms appearing 12–48 hours after exposure, and people can spread it for two weeks or more even after feeling better.How the virus spreads is simple. It can jump from a sick person to another through direct contact, shared food or utensils, contaminated surfaces, or by eating food that has been handled by someone ill. Food is a major route; many outbreaks happen when sick people prepare food or when contaminated water is used. An environmental check in Sussex County found no problems at restaurants, so the outbreak seems to stem from the virus itself rather than a food service issue. Norovirus peaks between November and April. During these months, officials urge people to take extra precautions: sick individuals should avoid cooking for others and wait at least 48 hours after symptoms end before returning to work. Wash linens with detergent and hot water, and remember that alcohol‑based hand sanitizers do not work well against norovirus. Hand washing remains the best defense. Nationwide, 31 outbreaks were reported in early January across 14 states that share data with the CDC—a roughly 35% jump from the previous week. However, this level is typical for the season and falls within the middle 50% of outbreaks seen from 2012 to 2025. There is no specific treatment for norovirus; doctors recommend staying home, resting and rehydrating.