Norovirus isn’t only a problem on cruise ships. Researchers find it in wastewater in many U.S. areas. This includes California, Pennsylvania, Las Vegas, Colorado, and Texas.
Since January 2025, at least 90 reported cases have been reported weekly. This shows that the highly contagious virus is spreading quickly.
But how does norovirus end up in wastewater, and more importantly, how can you protect yourself and your family? Let’s break it down and explore how specific filtration systems can help ensure your drinking water stays clean and safe.
What is Norovirus and Why is It in Our Wastewater?
Norovirus is a leading cause of stomach virus and foodborne illnesses. People know it as the stomach flu and for its ability to spread rapidly in close quarters. But, it's actually not the flu at all. The norovirus is a virus that causes inflammation in your stomach or intestines.
- Puking every morning
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Dehydration
The symptoms typically appear between 12 to 48 hours and the sickness is contagious for about 2 weeks. It's primarily spread through vomiting or feces. If vomit or poop particles spread around you and you touch your mouth, you're likely to get sick. Yikes!
The virus enters wastewater systems when infected individuals flush bodily fluids down toilets or rinse contaminated food into sinks. Wastewater treatment plants do not always remove viruses completely.
This means small amounts can get into local water supplies. This is especially true in places with flooding or old infrastructure. These factors increase the risk of contamination.
Where is Norovirus Impacting the Most?
In 2024- 2025, wastewater testing across multiple states detected alarming levels of norovirus. Here’s where the virus has been making waves:
- California – High concentrations in urban areas due to population density.
- Pennsylvania – Increased cases linked to recent wastewater overflows.
- Las Vegas – Tourist-heavy areas contribute to rapid spread.
- Colorado – Outbreaks have been reported in ski resorts and local communities.
- Texas – Heavy rains and flooding have worsened wastewater contamination.
- Florida – Over 112 passengers and 17 crew members infected by norovirus on a cruise ship. This is the 4th outbreak reported to the CDC.
- Massachusetts -- Virus outbreak has more than doubled since 2023.
How to Protect Your Home’s Water from Norovirus
Water treatment facilities do their best, but viruses like norovirus can still make their way through the system. The best way to make sure your home’s drinking water is safe is to install a reverse osmosis (RO) system. You can also use an ultraviolet light system for full protection.
Why Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse osmosis is one of the most powerful water filtration methods, removing up to 99% of viruses, bacteria, and contaminants.
An RO system provides an extra layer of protection against waterborne illnesses, making it an excellent choice for families, especially those with immunocompromised people.
They are typically installed under your sink for drinking water so be sure to use RO water whenever you’re cooking or making your tea or coffee!
Top Reverse Osmosis Solutions:
- Premier Series Reverse Osmosis System – A high-performance RO system that ensures clean, purified drinking water for your home.
- Signature Elite Whole House Water Filtration System – Includes water filtration, pre-filters, and an RO system to safeguard your whole home’s water.
UV System Virus Purification
An advanced UV filtration unit designed to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from your home's water supply.
Ultraviolet (UV) light systems are another great way to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens from drinking water. They’re installed with the main water line so you’ll have complete purification throughout your home.
How? It uses high-intensity light to deactivate microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing illnesses, including the norovirus!
What’s So Great About UV?
- Kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses, including norovirus.
- Works without chemicals, preserving the natural taste of water.
- Provides continuous disinfection without requiring frequent maintenance.
| Quick Tip: |
| You can install a UV system with any other water filtration system you might have an eye on. Add water softeners, treatment, or an RO system for comprehensive disinfection and filtration! |
Prevention Tips Beyond Filtration
Outside of water filtration, you can also take these few extra steps to stop the spread:
- Wash Hands Thoroughly – Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom or preparing food.
- Disinfect Surfaces – Use bleach-based cleaners to kill the virus on countertops, doorknobs, and shared spaces.
- Avoid Contaminated Water – If there’s a known outbreak, avoid drinking unfiltered tap water.
- Cook Food Properly – Heat kills norovirus, so ensure seafood, vegetables, and other raw items are cooked thoroughly.
Check out the CDC’s official norovirus prevention guide for additional prevention tips.
Your Norovirus Questions Answered
Q: Can norovirus survive in tap water?
A: Yes, norovirus can survive in untreated or improperly treated tap water, especially in areas with outdated water treatment infrastructure.
Even if the water was properly treated in a facility, it can still pick up the virus going from treatment to your home. There’s no telling what’s in our pipes!
Q: Does boiling water kill norovirus?
A: Yes, boiling water for at least one minute can kill norovirus. However, using a proper water purification system is a more convenient long-term solution.
Q: How long does norovirus last in water?
A: Norovirus can persist in water for weeks or even months if not properly filtered or disinfected.
Q: What are the symptoms of norovirus?
A: Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, fever, and dehydration, typically lasting 1-3 days. However, it remains contagious for up to 2 weeks, even after symptoms are gone.
Q: How can I protect my family from norovirus in water?
A: Installing a reverse osmosis system or a UV system is the best way to remove norovirus and other contaminants from your drinking water.
Where to Go From Here?
The increasing presence of norovirus in wastewater and around the country is a reminder of why clean water matters. With outbreaks affecting multiple states and cases on the rise, ensuring your water is safe should be a top priority.
Investing in a reverse osmosis system or a UV system provides the best defense against norovirus-contaminated water, giving you peace of mind with every sip.
Norovirus in wastewater is a growing concern, but you don’t have to take risks with your drinking water. Don’t wait until an outbreak hits your area—protect your home today!
