Norovirus Spreading Again In Iowa

Confirmed cases of norovirus have been reported in Polk, Johnson, Scott, Dubuque, Black Hawk, and Winneshiek Counties, KWWL reported Thursday.

Norovirus is not deadly, but it is unpleasant and highly contagious. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach cramping. The illness is usually brief, lasting one to two days, but individuals may remain contagious until three days after recovery.

The Iowa Department of Public Health announced reports of norovirus activity have been increasing in recent weeks, after an earlier outbreak was reported across the state in December.

The Iowa Department of Public Health reports:

Norovirus can spread quickly from person-to-person, especially in crowded, closed places like schools, hotels and daycare centers. The viruses are found in the vomit and stool of infected people, and can get into the air. Typically you get it by:

• Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus (someone gets stool or vomit on their hands because they are ill, they then touch your food or drink).
• Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then putting your hand or fingers in your mouth.
• Being near someone who is vomiting or having diarrhea.
• Having direct contact with a person who is infected with norovirus (for example, when caring for someone with norovirus).

There are two critical ways to stop the spread of norovirus:

• Stay home when ill and do not prepare food for anyone but yourself until three days after all diarrhea and vomiting have stopped.
• Wash hands frequently, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers, and always before eating or preparing food.

More information about the norovirus can be found here.