State health officials are advising North Carolinians to take precautions to avoid exposure to the norovirus.
Several local health departments across the state have reported multiple outbreaks of norovirus. Officials did not specify which areas reported the outbreaks.
Dr. Zack Moore with the Division of Public Health explained common symptoms of the virus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping.
“It is the most common cause of vomiting and diarrhea in this country,” Moore said. “It affects 20 million people each year, so this is very common and it can be very severe.”
Additional symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and a general sense of tiredness.
The state health department says those infected with the gastrointestinal illness are contagious the moment they begin feeling sick until at least three days after they recover.
“Symptoms usually resolve on their own, but some people can get very dehydrated and actually need IV fluids,” Moore explained.
Moore said the virus is spread from direct contact with an infected person or by contact with a contaminated surface, food or drink.
"Our most important message is that it’s out there and it’s very important for people to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water,” Moore said. “Unfortunately the alcohol-based sanitizers are just not as effective against norovirus as other things."
“People need to remember to stay home if they are sick, especially if they have diarrhea and are vomiting. Do not go into school or work and expose other people.”
Tips from the Department of Health and Human Services:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after toilet visits and before preparing, serving or eating food or drink.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces contaminated with vomit or diarrhea immediately using a bleach-based household cleaner or dilute household bleach.
- Stay home when sick.
- Do not prepare food for other people when sick and for at least three days afterward.
- Drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid lost through vomiting and diarrhea.
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