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NOROVIRUS: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW


Norovirus is a very contagious virus that spreads quickly. You can get it from people who have the virus, contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Norovirus can cause diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, stomach pain, fever, and nausea. Anyone can contract norovirus however young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk.  


How Norovirus Spreads

 

Norovirus spreads easily in many ways: 


  • Contaminated food: If someone with norovirus touches food or food touches a surface with the virus, it can become contaminated. Food can also become contaminated by vomit particles in the air.  

  • Contaminated water: Water that is not treated properly like pools or wells, can carry norovirus. Drinking or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick. 

  • Contaminated surfaces: If someone with norovirus touches surfaces, or if vomit or poop particles land on a surface, you can catch the virus by coming in contact with the contaminated surface.  


Prevention 


  • Hand Washing – Wash your hands very well with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before eating and handling food is important. Hand sanitizer is not effective against norovirus.  

  • Food Handling – Wash fruits and vegetables well and cook foods like shellfish at 145 degrees to kill the virus.  

  • Cleaning Surfaces – Wear gloves when cleaning surfaces that have vomit or poop. Use a disinfectant with bleach and let it sit for 5 minutes before cleaning it again with soap and water. 

  • Washing Laundry – If clothing or sheets have vomit or poop on them, wash them with hot water and detergent, and then dry on the highest heat setting to kill the virus.  


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