Although winter is coming to an end, at least in most parts of the Northern Hemisphere, winter illnesses are still running rampant, especially in crowded schools and public places. One disease that you may hear in the news is norovirus, also known as the “stomach flu” or “winter vomiting disease.” Known for its rapid spread and unpleasant symptoms, here are some things you should know about its current outbreak and what you can do to avoid it.

Norovirus is the leading cause of food poisoning and around 20 million contract the disease every year. Its peak is from November to April, as people tend to gather indoors during the winter months. Norovirus can be spread through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or inhaling aerosols from an infected person’s vomit. However, it is not a respiratory disease, so you cannot contract it through coughing or sneezing. It causes acute gastroenteritis, a stomach bug that causes cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea. One important thing to know about norovirus is that it is resistant to hand sanitizer, meaning that you should wash your hands with soap and water. It can also be contagious for several days after symptoms resolve. 

To prevent contracting norovirus, make sure to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cook shellfish thoroughly, and wash fruits and vegetables carefully. If you do contract norovirus, make sure you are resting at home and eating a bland diet including foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). It is also important to hydrate well, as vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration.