Protect Yourself and Your Family From Norovirus This Winter

Norovirus, also known as stomach flu, is a very common and highly infectious virus that can strike during any season. However, it is especially prevalent in winter months when people spend more time indoors and in close proximity to one another. Norovirus can cause mild to severe stomach upset, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is easily spread through contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces or food items. To protect yourself and your family from norovirus this winter, follow these suggestions:

1.) Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers, before preparing food and before eating. If soap isn’t available use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2.) Disinfect surfaces: It is important to regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, handles and counters with a bleach solution (1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water).

3.) Avoid eating raw shellfish: Raw or undercooked shellfish can be contaminated with norovirus so it’s best to avoid them this season.

4.) Practice good food handling techniques: Make sure to wash your hands before preparing food and clean any utensils and cutting boards that come in contact with uncooked foods such as meat and fish. Cook all food thoroughly and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

5.) Stay home if you’re sick: If you have stomach flu symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the virus.

6.) Dispose of contaminated items properly: Anything that may have come into contact with vomit or feces (such as laundry, bedding and towels) should be discarded in a sealed plastic bag. Wash any items that can be washed on the hottest setting possible and dry them on high heat as well.

7.) Seek medical care if needed: If symptoms become severe or last more than a few days you should seek medical attention to make sure you don’t develop any complications such as dehydration.

By following these simple steps it is possible to protect yourself and your family from norovirus this winter season. By taking the time to practice good hand hygiene, disinfect surfaces and practice proper food handling techniques you can drastically reduce your chances of becoming infected. Additionally, stay home if you become sick and seek medical care if needed. Doing these things will help ensure that everyone stays healthy this winter season!

Go beyond these tips and consult your healthcare provider for more information about norovirus and how to protect yourself and your family from it. Take the time to educate yourself and those around you so that everyone is aware of the risks associated with stomach flu. With a bit of effort and vigilance, it’s possible to keep winter stomach flu at bay this year! Have a healthy winter season!