Ottawa County Health Officials Warn of Increase in Norovirus

COUNTY OF OTTAWA, MI – Officials from the Ministry of Public Health have warned residents of the growing threat of norovirus in Ottawa County.

On Thursday, March 14, county health officials announced that a norovirus-like stomach virus was circulating rapidly, with 215 cases reported in the county last month. This is an increase from zero cases reported in November, December and January and a significant increase over the previous three years.

Health officials warn residents against the stomach virus quickly and easily and remind them to wash their hands regularly and take other precautions to prevent illness.

"We are seeing an increase in the number of emergency department visits following complaints similar to a stomach virus," said Marcia Mansaray, senior epidemiologist, in a press release. occur in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.

"To reduce the risk of illness in our community, people should take preventative measures to stay healthy."

Norovirus and similar diseases spread by touching surfaces contaminated with vomit or stool. Common epidemics are in enclosed places, such as nursing homes, daycares, schools, cruise ships, restaurants and food establishments.

It is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States, with the majority of outbreaks occurring from November to April.

Everyone can contract the norovirus and have it several times. People with norovirus are the most contagious when they start to feel sick within days of recovery. Some people may be contagious even longer, county health officials said.

Below you will find a list of recommended actions by the county to avoid norovirus:

• Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers. Always wash your hands before eating or preparing food. Hand sanitizers are generally not effective against norovirus.
• Handle and prepare food safely. People with norovirus should not prepare food for others when they have symptoms and for at least two days after convalescence.
• Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces such as toilets, countertops and doorknobs. Always clean the entire area immediately after a person with norovirus vomits or has diarrhea. Put on disposable gloves and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based household cleaner as indicated on the product label or with a solution of five tablespoons of bleach in one gallon of water.
• Wash the laundry thoroughly. Immediately remove and wash clothing or clothing that may be contaminated with vomit or stool. Handle soiled items with care – try not to shake them – to avoid spreading the virus. If possible, wear disposable gloves when handling soiled clothing or laundry and wash your hands after handling the product.
• Stay home if you are sick for at least 24 hours after the end of the symptoms to avoid transmitting the disease to other people.