Michigan is seeing an increase in norovirus activity this winter. As the cold weather continues, this number may continue to rise.
State health officials report five norovirus outbreaks during the month of November. December saw that number increase to twenty one. Officials urge people to take precautions to keep themselves healthy.
The virus spreads through food, person-to-person contact, and through contaminated surfaces.
Lynn Sutfin is a spokesperson with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. She said washing your hands is important to protect yourself.
“Wash your hands! Do frequent hand washing for at least twenty seconds using soap and warm running water. Make sure to completely clean all areas of your hand and under your fingernails. That is a great things for any disease. It helps keep you protected.”
Sutfin said people should also sanitize using bleach to get rid of norovirus germs on contaminated surfaces.
Sutfin said norovirus causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping. She said the symptoms can last up to three days.