Norovirus information, precautions
There have been three different outbreaks of norovirus, the largest of which was at a residential care facility in Mill Valley, according to Marin County health officials. In this last outbreak, there have been 59 cases reported with two deaths and six hospitalizations. The two who died had additional significant health complications, county officials said.
Marin County health officials provided the following information on norovirus.
Norovirus (sometimes called "stomach flu" or "cruise ship illness") is a very contagious virus. It is not the same as influenza —or "flu" —which is a respiratory illness. You can get norovirus from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated. This virus leads to stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. You may have one or more or all of the symptoms.
Anyone can become infected with norovirus. Norovirus generally lasts one to two days and can be very serious, especially for the very young and very old. Although not common, death may occur from norovirus.
There is no vaccine for norovirus, so prevention is key. The following steps will help in reducing the number and spread of this disease.
Wash your hands. This is the most important measure in preventing the spread of norovirus. Always wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers, and always before eating, preparing and handling food.
Stay home from work or keep your kids home from school while symptoms occur and for 24 hours after the symptoms have subsided.
Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces. Clean immediately after vomiting or having diarrhea with a chlorine bleach solution (five to 25 tablespoons of household bleach per gallon of water).
Wash laundry thoroughly. Wear rubber or disposable gloves while handling soiled items and wash your hands after removing the gloves. Wash laundry with detergent at the maximum cycle length and machine dry.
Do not prepare food for others or care for others if you are sick.
For additional information on norovirus, call Marin County Communicable Disease Prevention and Control at 415-473-3038 or visit www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Pages/Norovirus.aspx