Has Highly Contagious Stomach Virus Come to South Dakota Yet?

Odds are pretty good that plenty of South Dakotans have been dealing with Norovirus this winter season. It certainly has been making its presence known in other areas of the country, including our neighbor Minnesota.

According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control & Prevention), there has been a real spike in the number of people getting what is commonly referred to as stomach flu. Although norovirus is not related to the flu at all. The flu is caused by influenza viruses and not a norovirus.

What Are the Symptoms of Norovirus

The symptoms of norovirus include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, body aches, headache, and even a low-grade fever.

The CDC estimates that every year noroviruses cause about 20 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea, 465,000 emergency room visits, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths.

How Does It Spread?

This awful stomach bug is spread by people in close contact with others who have already contracted the disease, contaminated food and surfaces. Norovirus is considered to be a seasonal illness because most cases occur between November and early April according to the CDC.

How Can You Prevent A Norovirus?

The way you prevent a norovirus from turning your world upside down for about 2 days is the same advice we've been getting forever- -wash your hands! Scrub them well for about 20 seconds especially before you eat.

What Should You Do If You Get a Norovirus?

Stay home until you're feeling better and stay away from other people if you can. Wash all your laundry in hot water and don't prepare food for 48 hours after your symptoms stop. And of course- wash, wash, wash, your hands!

Sources: CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and Today Health