Flu, norovirus cases skyrocket in NYC — and the real number of sick is likely ‘much higher’ than reported

It’s the Sick Apple.

Norovirus infections jumped a stomach-turning 159% last month compared to the same span last year in NYC, where flu cases are also up nearly 25% so far in 2025, city Department of Health data reveal.

There were 1,264 norovirus cases last month in Gotham, compared to 488 in December 2023.

The first two weeks of 2025 brought a 30% increase in norovirus infections, with 343 cases as of Jan. 11, compared to 263 in the same period last year, the data show.

The number of norovirus cases is “likely much higher” than what’s reported by clinical labs, since not every infected individual gets tested, a DOH spokesperson said.

The bug, also known as the stomach flu, usually causes vomiting and diarrhea but in rare cases can lead to death. Experts suggest staying home when sick and washing hands regularly to stop its spread.

Meanwhile, flu is also on the rise across the five boroughs.

Nearly 15,000 New Yorkers tested positive for influenza in the week ending Jan. 11, marking a 10% increase over the previous week — and a 23% climb in cases so far this year, according to the data. 

One child has died from the influenza since the beginning of flu season in October, down from the three flu-related pediatric deaths logged at this point last year, according to the agency.

The city doesn’t track flu- or norovirus-associated deaths among adults.