CDC: Contagious Virus Surging In Minnesota + Wisconsin
Have you felt a little off lately? It is definitely that time of the year where everyone is getting sick, whether with a cold or flu or one of the other seemingly hundreds of things going around right about now.
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Now, we have another thing we need to be aware of, if you aren't already that is. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new information recently, warning that there is a rise in Norovirus all around the country right now.
What Are The Symptoms Of Norovirus?
The virus is highly contagious and can hit anyone of any age. The symptoms of Norovirus include the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach Pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Dehydration
Sometimes Norovirus is called the 'stomach bug' or 'stomach flu' but the CDC says this isn't exactly the case, stating that the virus is not related to the flu, even if they have a few overlapping symptoms.
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Most people get better after a few days but can still spread the illness a few days after feeling better.
How Is It Impacting Minnesota + Wisconsin?
The virus is spreading all over the country, including in Minnesota and Wisconsin, with areas in the Northeast being hit the hardest at the time of writing. The virus usually strikes between November and April so the big spike in cases isn't too surprising.
How Is Norovirus Spread?
The virus is highly contagious and you can get it by accidentally getting tiny particles of feces or vomit in your mouth from someone else who has the virus. You can spread or get the virus in a multitude of ways, including in the following ways:
- Having direct contact with someone who has the virus, whether by sharing utensils or by eating food they've touched
- Eating foods / liquids contaminated with Norovirus
- Touching surfaces or objects with the virus then touching your mouth
To prevent it, wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing a diaper, preparing food, clean and disinfect surfaces, handle and prepare food safely, among many other tasks. If you do get the virus, keep hydrated and wait it out.