The number of norovirus cases is increasing across the US, but there are ways to reduce your chances of infection and stave off dehydration and other symptoms.

Norovirus cases are surging in the US, the CDC says. Here are the symptoms to look for, plus how long you're contagious for, per an infectious disease doctor.

In recent months, the U.S. and the Bay Area have seen a significant increase in norovirus cases, marking the highest outbreak levels in over a decade.

Reported cases of norovirus — a brief, but miserable illness — have generally been rising across the country in recent months, according to national data, but people can help protect themselves by practicing good hygiene.

A surge in norovirus cases might be explained by a new strain of the virus, which now reportedly makes up a majority of outbreaks across the U.S. This winter’s dominant norovirus strain is a newer variant called the G11.