CDC releases new data, reports increase in cases of stomach flu Boston 25 News [Video]

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting a rise in norovirus cases compared to previous years.

The agency is reporting an uptick in early December after outbreaks of the virus, commonly known as stomach flu, were reported nationwide, USA Today reported.

According to the latest CDC data, there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus reported during the week of Dec. 5. During the last week of November, there were 69 outbreaks, The Associated Press reported.

In Minnesota, more than 40 outbreaks were reported in December, according to that state’s Department of Health.

The stomach bug is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from inflammation of the stomach and intestines, or gastroenteritis, USA Today reported, citing CDC data. It is also the top cause of foodborne illness in the United States and causes 58% of the illnesses acquired, according to the newspaper.

Norovirus is extremely contagious and can cause symptoms within 12 to 48 hours after being exposed, the CDC said. Most people recover fully within …