According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, several outbreaks thought to be caused by norovirus have been reported in the state over the last week. While investigations are still in progress, the cases have been among employees and residents of a long-term care facility. The illness, which is the most common cause of diarrheal outbreaks in the state, has been traced back to a family reunion. All outbreaks are required to be reported to IDPH immediately.

Patients who present with symptoms of norovirus, which may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, should be reminded of practices to reduce spread of the virus. These practices may include frequent hand-washing and avoiding preparing food for others. Such measures should continue for at least two or three days after symptom resolution. Those people with “high-risk” occupations, including food handlers, healthcare providers, and childcare providers, should not work when they have symptoms. Those individuals should also refrain from working for 48 hours after symptom resolution as transmission may occur when asymptomatic.

For more information about norovirus from the CDC, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/index.html

For more information about norovirus from IDPH, visit: http://www.idph.state.ia.us/CADE/DiseaseIndex.aspx?disease=Norovirus.