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MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Minnesota well being officers are warning of a rise in reported norovirus cases forward of the vacations.
Norovirus instances in Minnesota
What we all know: The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) stated on Monday it has recorded greater than 40 outbreaks of norovirus thus far this December, which is almost twice the standard quantity for this time of 12 months, in accordance with a press launch.
As individuals get able to see their family and friends for the vacation, well being officers urge individuals to take precautionary steps to assist curve the unfold of the virus.
What they’re saying: “Particularly forward of vacation gatherings, we need to make certain individuals are conscious of this improve in norovirus outbreaks and taking steps to stop spreading sickness to household or associates,” stated Jessica Hancock-Allen, infectious illness division director at MDH.
What is norovirus?
Dig deeper: Norovirus, also referred to as the abdomen flu, is extremely contagious. It’s the main explanation for foodborne sickness in Minnesota, and the most typical trigger for short-term signs of diarrhea and vomiting within the United States.
The virus could cause quite a lot of signs together with vomiting, diarrhea, abdomen cramping, complications, muscle aches, low-grade fever or chills. Symptoms usually subside inside a day or two, however the virus can nonetheless be unfold weeks after you’re feeling higher, in accordance with the CDC.
How does norovirus unfold?
What we all know: The CDC states the most typical methods to get norovirus embody:
- Having direct contact with somebody who has the virus
- Eating meals or ingesting liquids contaminated with the virus
- Touching a contaminated floor and placing your unwashed fingers in your mouth.
On common, most individuals will get norovirus about 5 instances inside their life, in accordance with the MDH.
What you are able to do: The MDH offered ideas to assist stop getting or spreading norovirus:
- Most hand sanitizers don’t kill norovirus. It’s essential to scrub your fingers with cleaning soap and water for 20 seconds earlier than making ready most meals, or after utilizing the toilet.
- Do not make meals for different individuals in the event you’re experiencing signs of vomiting or diarrhea inside the final three days. Also, don’t eat meals ready by another person who’s sick.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a family bleach resolution.
- Ensure that oysters and different shellfish are cooked completely earlier than consuming them.
For extra details about norovirus, go to MDH’s website here.
