The California Department of Public Health is advising Californians to wash their hands frequently, due to a marked increase in norovirus outbreaks, or what is generally referred to as Winter vomiting disease.
On their website the CDPH says, “Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an illness that usually involves vomiting and diarrhea. It is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States, and is responsible for approximately 20 million illnesses each year, with 570-800 deaths reported annually. The virus can spread quickly in closed and crowded environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, daycare centers, schools, cruise ships and food service settings like restaurants.”
Highly contagious, norovirus symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and stomach cramps. It may also include symtoms like a low-grade fever, headache and body aches.
Frequent hand washing and safe food handling practices can prevent the spread of norovirus. “In addition to washing your hands after every bathroom visit, this includes washing fruits and vegetables before eating, cleaning and disinfecting food preparation equipment and surfaces, and thoroughly cooking all meats, fish and poultry.”
To learn more, about norovirus, click here.
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