Thu Dec 18 12:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, rewritten as a news article for an automated voice:

Summary:

California is experiencing a rise in norovirus cases, commonly known as the “stomach flu,” with a new subvariant, GII.17, potentially exacerbating the situation. Wastewater monitoring shows increased norovirus presence, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. National test positivity rates are also up, particularly in the Western U.S. The new GII.17 strain was responsible for about 75% of outbreaks last year, which began unusually early and lasted longer than usual. Experts emphasize the importance of handwashing with soap and water to prevent infection, as hand sanitizers are not as effective against norovirus. While some areas haven’t seen a major surge yet, experts caution that it may only be a matter of time. Those most at risk of severe complications are young children and the elderly.

News Article:

California Braces for Potential Norovirus Surge as New Subvariant Emerges

California is on alert as cases of norovirus, the highly contagious “stomach flu,” are on the rise. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation, with wastewater samples indicating increased viral activity, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles County.

The California Department of Public Health confirms a statewide increase in norovirus, mirroring a national trend reflected in rising test positivity rates. The CDC reports a significant increase in norovirus test positivity in the West.

Experts are concerned about the emergence of a new subvariant, GII.17, which was responsible for the majority of outbreaks nationally during last year’s surge, which started early and stretched long. This strain could lead to a further increase in infections, as immunity may be lower against this newer form of the virus.

Norovirus is easily spread through contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea.

Health officials are urging residents to practice thorough handwashing with soap and water, as hand sanitizers are less effective against norovirus. The CDC recommends washing for at least 20 seconds, and staying home for at least 48 hours after infection.

While some regions of California haven’t experienced a significant surge yet, experts warn that increased vigilance is necessary. Young children and older adults are most vulnerable to severe complications from norovirus and should seek medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms like dehydration.

The CDC reports that, typically, norovirus leads to millions of outpatient visits, hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits, and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths annually.

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