Published on November 11, 2011

Norovirus Illness More Common During Colder Months

 

Ames, Iowa – Story County Public Health has recently received multiple reports of illness caused by norovirus in the community.

This is not that unusual; norovirus activity occurs year-round, but is traditionally higher in the colder months because people are indoors more and in closer contact. Norovirus spreads when people fail to wash their hands after going to the bathroom. It is also spread when people prepare food while ill with vomiting and diarrhea. "Anyone with diarrhea or vomiting should not be handling any food items, regardless of  how well they wash their hands," said Terri Olinger, HOMEWARD Public Health Nurse. "That rule is important no matter if you’re cooking for two or 200, whether it’s a regular family meal or at a restaurant."

Norovirus is a major cause of gastrointestinal illnesses each year. Symptoms of norovirus illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and low-grade fever. Although sometimes called the ‘stomach flu,’ noroviruses are not the same as influenza and are not prevented by receiving the flu vaccine. The illness lasts for about two days and victims usually recover completely with no long-term health effects. If ill, the most important thing to do is keep drinking fluids. The most common health complication from norovirus is dehydration

For more information on noroviruses, visit www.idph.state.ia.us/idph_universalhelp/main.aspx?system=IdphEpiManual&context=Norovirus_factsheet.