How to avoid the Norovirus outbreak

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- The norovirus infection has been spreading across the nation, even causing some schools to close.

The virus is more commonly referred to as the stomach bug. It’s a gastrointestinal virus that is not related to influenza.

Erin Hlad, Communicable Health Nurse at Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Department, said there have not been a lot of cases in the Muskingum County, but the area shouldn’t let their guard down.

“It’s very, very contagious if you come in contact with somebody that is sick [or] if you touch a surface that might have some of the germs on it,” said Hlad.

She said the germs can last up to two weeks on a surface, increasing the possibility of exposure. Hlad said schools, skilled nursing facilities and colleges are where the virus can be most easily contracted.

“Really the best thing you can do is wash your hands. And make sure it is for a longer period of time for 20 to 30 seconds,” said Hlad. “Vigorously scrub [and] make sure you get under your nails and [use] hot water. These germs can live up to a temperate of 140 degrees.”

Hlad said the biggest concern when getting norovirus is dehydration. If you think you have norovirus she suggested calling your physician before going into the office because of how contagious it is.