WYOMING — On Tuesday, Jan. 14, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) announced an increase in norovirus cases throughout the state of Wyoming. Starting in mid-December, wastewater testing confirmed elevated levels of circulating norovirus in communities, according to the WDH.
“Norovirus, a familiar and repeat offender, is responsible for many recently increased reports of illnesses in Wyoming,” the WDH said in a press release.
Many people with norovirus will describe it as the “stomach flu” or “food poisoning.” The norovirus can be spread by eating contaminated food, touching contaminated surfaces or through close contact with someone already sick, the WDH said via press release.
Matt Peterson, WDH surveillance epidemiologist, said contamination is frequently not obvious.
“A kitchen or restroom may look clean, but we’re often talking about extremely tiny amounts of poop or vomit,” Peterson said. “We can’t always see what can unfortunately make us very sick.”
According to Peterson, the illness can hit quickly between 12 to 48 hours after a person has been exposed. People who are sick with norovirus could experience nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue and dehydration. Other viruses and illnesses caused by bacteria contamination such as E. coli can cause similar symptoms, but norovirus is most common.
Peterson said that symptoms usually last from one to three days without causing long-term problems. If the illness causes dehydration, it can becomes a serious situation. People who become severely ill should call or visit a medical professional. Infants, young children, immune-compromised persons and persons unable to care for themselves, such as the disabled or elderly, are at higher risk for dehydration and could need hospitalization.
“Norovirus illnesses can be prevented,” Peterson said. “It sounds too obvious or simple, but good hand washing and cleaning practices are critical. It’s also important to know people can still be contagious and spread the virus for a few days after they no longer have symptoms.”
Recommended steps to help prevent illness include:
- Frequently wash hands with warm water and soap, especially after using the restroom or changing diapers, and before eating or preparing food.
- If ill, stay home from work and school, especially if employed in food-handling, healthcare or child care.
- Ill persons should take extra care to avoid spreading the virus by minimizing contact with other persons while ill and practicing good hygiene.
- Immediately remove and wash contaminated clothing or linens after an episode of illness (use hot water and soap).
- Flush or discard any vomit and/or feces in the toilet and keep the surrounding area clean.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of vomiting or diarrhea with a solution of one cup household bleach per one gallon of water and letting the solution sit for one minute. Always follow manufacturers’ safety precautions.
