Norovirus causes up to 21 million illnesses in the U.S. every year. Here's what to know about the contagious disease that hand sanitizer can't kill.

The article focuses on norovirus, a highly contagious pathogen that causes significant illness and hospitalizations in the U.S. each year, with an average of 900 deaths and 19 to 21 million illnesses. Norovirus spreads primarily through fecal-oral transmission, often via contaminated food, water, or surfaces, and can also be transmitted through aerosols from vomiting. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain, lasting one to three days, with no specific treatment available; hydration is crucial. While there is currently no vaccine, Moderna is conducting a clinical trial for a messenger RNA vaccine aimed at combating the virus. To prevent infection, experts recommend frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding food preparation when sick. [Extracted from the article]