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WCHD says norovirus cases spike during winter months

Ultima

Norovirus is an infection that can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. It can come on suddenly and is extremely contagious.

The virus is commonly spread through food or water or surfaces contaminated during preparation or through close contact with someone who has the infection.

Beth Ann Hamilton is Communications Coordinator for the Washtenaw County Health Department. She says in addition to remaining isolated while sick, washing hands is the best preventative measure.

”Stay away from other people. I know that's exceptionally difficult this time of year. There's so many gatherings and travel. But really, this is the time of the year where things start to go around.”

Norovirus can cause extreme dehydration with stomach pain and vomiting 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Symptoms last 1 to 3 days.

Young children, older adults or people with compromised immune systems may require medical attention.

Washtenaw County Health Department

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An award winning journalist, Caroline's career has spanned both commercial and public media in addition to writing for several newspapers and working as a television producer. As a broadcaster she has covered breaking stories for NPR and most recently worked as Assistant News Director for West Virginia Public Broadcasting. This year she returned to Michigan to be closer to family.
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