Sponsored by: St. Clair County Community College
Due to increased norovirus-like illness in Michigan, the St. Clair County Health Department is recommending residents take precautions to stay healthy. The virus is very contagious and is passed through vomit and feces. Contamination can reach as far as 40 feet from the source. Norovirus is easily transmitted through food, person-to-person contact, or by contaminated surfaces causing stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Outbreaks happen throughout the year, however over 80% occur from November to April. The illness usually begins 12-48 hours after exposure. People infected are most contagious from the moment they start feeling sick and during the first days after recovery. Norovirus can be still be spread for two weeks or more after recovery. It is important to stay home when sick. Avoid public places, social events and gatherings. This will help stop the spread of further illness. Precautionary steps such as washing hands frequently, disinfecting contaminated surfaces with bleach and washing all soiled clothing and linens should help prevent the virus.
