A warning from the Washtenaw County Department of Public Health - norovirus is in the area

(WXYZ) - Several outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness have been reported to the Washtenaw Co. Dept. of Public Health in the past month. One of the outbreaks was confirmed as norovirus, which is common this time of year.

Noroviruses are highly contagious viruses that cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Some people also experience headache, low grade fever, and body aches. Symptoms usually last for 24 to 48 hours.

Norovirus is transmitted by eating contaminated food (food that was prepared or handled by another ill person), by touching surfaces or objects (such as doorknobs, faucets, handles, etc.) contaminated with norovirus and then touching the mouth, and by having direct contact with a person who is infected and showing symptoms.

To prevent the spread of norovirus:

•     Wash your hands frequently
•     Stay home if you are ill
•     Disinfect with a bleach-based cleaning solution
•     Do not prepare food for others if you are ill

CLICK HERE to learn more about noroviruses