DHEC warning about Norovirus

With the arrival of the peak of norovirus season, January-March, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environment Control warns residents of this infection commonly referred to as the stomach bug. Symptoms of norovirus infection include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach cramping. Noroviruses are a group of related viruses that affect the stomach and intestines and are the most common cause of stomach and intestinal inflammation, also known as gastroenteritis, in the United States.  The virus is easily spread through a variety of ways including eating foods or drinking liquids contaminated with the virus, touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then your mouth, or having direct contact with an infected person. There is no vaccine to prevent norovirus infection.  Health officials recommend washing your hands carefully with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers, and always before eating or preparing food in order to prevent the virus. If you contract the virus, DHEC suggests preventing its spread to others by not preparing food for at least three days after the symptoms cease, cleaning soiled areas with a bleach-based household cleaner and using extreme care while handling soiled linens, making sure to wear gloves if necessary.