Norovirus cases in MN nearly double this December ahead of holiday season: MDH
An Electron Micrograph Of The Norwalk Virus, With 27 32Nm Sized Viral Particles. Norwalk Viruses And Related Caliciviruses Are Important Causes Of Nonbacterial Gastroenteritis In The United States. An Estimated 181,000 Cases Of This Type Of Food Pois
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Minnesota health officials are warning of an increase in reported norovirus cases ahead of the holidays.
Norovirus cases in Minnesota
What we know: The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) said on Monday it has recorded more than 40 outbreaks of norovirus so far this December, which is nearly twice the typical number for this time of year, according to a press release.
As people get ready to see their friends and family for the holiday, health officials urge people to take precautionary steps to help curve the spread of the virus.
What they’re saying: "Particularly ahead of holiday gatherings, we want to make sure people are aware of this increase in norovirus outbreaks and taking steps to prevent spreading illness to family or friends," said Jessica Hancock-Allen, infectious disease division director at MDH.
What is norovirus?
Dig deeper: Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, is highly contagious. It’s the leading cause of foodborne illness in Minnesota, and the most common cause for short-term symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting in the United States.
The virus can cause a variety of symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping, headaches, muscle aches, low-grade fever or chills. Symptoms typically subside within a day or two, but the virus can still be spread weeks after you’re feeling better, according to the CDC.
How does norovirus spread?
What we know: The CDC states the most common ways to get norovirus include:
- Having direct contact with someone who has the virus
- Eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with the virus
- Touching a contaminated surface and putting your unwashed fingers in your mouth.
On average, most people will get norovirus about five times within their life, according to the MDH.
What you can do: The MDH provided tips to help prevent getting or spreading norovirus:
- Most hand sanitizers do not kill norovirus. It’s important to wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before preparing most foods, or after using the bathroom.
- Do not make food for other people if you’re experiencing symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea within the last three days. Also, don’t eat food prepared by someone else who is sick.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a household bleach solution.
- Ensure that oysters and other shellfish are cooked thoroughly before eating them.
For more information about norovirus, visit MDH’s website here.