What Viruses are Going Around Right Now in Adults 2025?

So, what viruses are going around right now in adults 2025?

Norovirus is once again making headlines due to an uptick in outbreaks around the world.

Sometimes called the "winter vomiting bug," norovirus is one of the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

It spreads extremely easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or close contact with infected people, making outbreaks in communities, schools, and especially among groups in close quarters, such as hospitals and nursing homes.

Recent studies show that norovirus outbreaks often peak during colder months, contributing to seasonal spikes in illness.

Global surveillance data suggest that, while the global burden of norovirus has remained high for decades, the virus is evolving. For example, research from China found that non-GII.4 genotypes—which means less common strains are increasingly driving outbreaks, potentially shifting the dynamics of epidemic patterns and public health response strategies.

Environmental evidence supports the persistence of norovirus in water systems, highlighting just how resilient the virus is and how outbreaks can be triggered or sustained by contaminated water sources. The virus’s ability to spread through both direct and indirect contact, and its resistance to routine disinfection, are significant factors that add to its high transmission rate and frequent outbreaks, even more so since cases can be infectious before symptoms occur and after symptoms resolve.

A multifaceted public health approach is essential. Current evidence points to the importance of rapid outbreak detection, strict infection control, and thorough cleaning, due to the fact that the virus can survive on surfaces for weeks. Enhanced surveillance and timely response measures can help limit the spread, particularly in high-risk settings (Frontiers in Public Health)

While there is ongoing research into possible vaccines and antiviral treatments, prevention remains focused on personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water (alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective), proper food handling, and isolating sick individuals.

In summary, norovirus continues to be a major public health challenge given its rapid spread, genetic diversity, and environmental resilience. Ongoing global surveillance and research are crucial for improving prevention and response, especially as new variants and seasonal trends complicate the picture. Read more at: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/1/130