Norovirus-Like Outbreaks Rise in Eastern Virginia as Measles Cases Climb Statewide

ByBrian “Weence” Bateman

Virginia Beach, VA – March 9, 2026 – Emergency visits for stomach illness are elevated in Eastern Virginia as measles cases rise statewide, though none are reported locally.

Emergency departments in Eastern Virginia are seeing elevated visits for gastrointestinal illness as norovirus-like outbreaks increase statewide, according to recent Virginia Department of Health data. At the same time, Virginia has confirmed additional measles cases in 2026, though none have been reported in Hampton Roads so far this year.

GI Illness Visits Above Seasonal Threshold

State health data cited by local media show 13 norovirus-like outbreaks reported across Virginia in recent weeks. For the week of Feb. 15 to Feb. 21, emergency department and urgent care visits for gastrointestinal symptoms were above the state’s established threshold.

In the Eastern region, which includes Virginia Beach, about 12% of emergency and urgent care visits during that period were tied to gastrointestinal complaints. Two outbreaks were reported in the region.

Norovirus can spread quickly in households, schools, and group settings, especially during late winter. Health officials continue to emphasize basic prevention measures such as thorough handwashing with soap and water and careful cleaning of contaminated surfaces.

Measles Cases Increase Elsewhere in Virginia

Virginia has confirmed 10 measles cases so far in 2026, with most linked to Northern Virginia. Epidemiologists have described the pattern as travel-related and not indicative of sustained community spread.

No measles cases have been confirmed in Hampton Roads this year. However, vaccination coverage varies by locality. Virginia Beach kindergarten measles vaccination rates were previously cited at roughly 89%, below the statewide average of about 95%.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.

Health Coverage Changes to Watch

Separate statewide reporting indicates that Virginia’s Affordable Care Act marketplace is facing pressure following the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies and a reduction in participating insurers. Insurance regulators are monitoring potential impacts on premiums and plan availability.

For residents who purchase their own coverage, shifts at the state or federal level can affect plan options and out-of-pocket costs during the year. Local insurers have also posted updated provider authorization and medical policy documents that may influence how certain services are approved.

What Residents Should Know

Stomach illnesses can spread quickly in group settings, and emergency departments may be busier during seasonal spikes. Routine vaccinations, including MMR for children, remain an important protection against outbreaks when travel-related cases occur.

Residents who rely on marketplace insurance may want to review plan documents and watch for notices from insurers about policy or authorization updates.

If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.

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Brian “Weence” Bateman is a health and medical writer who covers public health updates, healthcare policy, and medical developments affecting communities across the United States. He works closely with dentists and healthcare providers and focuses on making complex medical information clear, accurate, and useful for everyday readers.