No. Hand sanitizer is simply not as effective against norovirus as it at killing other pathogens due to the virus's firm shell, Dr. William Schaffner, professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, told TODAY.com recently.

Atlanta — The U.S. has seen a slow surge of norovirus, the country’s leading cause of foodborne illness, with the Center of Disease Control advising caution and higher levels of cleanliness. However, norovirus can defeat most household cleaners, according to a National Institute of Food and Agriculture report.

Norovirus cases in the US have more than doubled compared to last season's peak. The highly contagious virus causes acute gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.

Put down the hand sanitizer and use soap, how to prevent Norovirus

Norovirus, a familiar and repeat offender, is responsible for many recently increased reports of illnesses in Wyoming, according to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH).