Norovirus-Like Outbreaks Rise in Eastern Virginia as Measles Cases Climb Statewide
Virginia Beach, VA – March 10, 2026 – Norovirus-like outbreaks are rising in Eastern Virginia while measles cases increase statewide, though none are reported locally.
Public health officials are tracking two separate illness trends with implications for Virginia Beach: an uptick in norovirus-like outbreaks in Eastern Virginia and a rise in measles cases elsewhere in the state.
GI Illness Visits Above Seasonal Threshold
Recent Virginia Department of Health data show an increase in norovirus-like outbreaks statewide, with activity affecting the Eastern region that includes Virginia Beach. For the week of Feb. 15 through Feb. 21, gastrointestinal illness accounted for about 12% of emergency department and urgent care visits in the region. Two outbreaks were reported in Eastern Virginia during that period.
Norovirus spreads quickly in households, schools, and group settings, especially in late winter. Health officials continue to emphasize basic prevention steps such as thorough handwashing with soap and water and careful cleaning of contaminated surfaces after vomiting or diarrhea.
Measles Cases Reported in Northern Virginia
Separately, Virginia has confirmed 10 measles cases so far in 2026, with most linked to Northern Virginia. State epidemiologists have described the pattern as travel-related rather than sustained community spread. No cases have been confirmed in Hampton Roads this year.
Kindergarten measles vaccination coverage varies by locality. Virginia Beach was previously cited at roughly 89%, below the statewide average near 95%. Public health officials note that high vaccination coverage helps limit the risk of local spread when an infected traveler enters a community. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine for children on the routine schedule.
What Residents Should Know
Stomach illness can spread quickly in close-contact settings. Schools and workplaces may see short-term spikes in absences during outbreak periods. Households are encouraged to follow local public health guidance on hygiene and illness prevention.
Families with school-aged children can review immunization records to ensure routine vaccines are up to date, particularly before travel. Residents who buy health coverage through the individual marketplace should also be aware that statewide policy changes may affect plan options and costs this year.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
