Norovirus is a gastrointestinal illness that generally causes vomiting and diarrhea.  You may hear people refer to it as the “stomach flu,” but norovirus is not related to the influenza virus, which is primarily a respiratory illness.

Every year – especially from November to March – we will see an increase in reports of norovirus, and many reports are in reference to outbreaks of illness. 

So what are the symptoms? And what can you do to stay healthy? 

Five tips to help in avoiding a norovirus or passing it along to others:

1. Always wash your hands carefully with soap and water (see video for proper handwashing techniques)
2. Wash fruits and vegetables and cook seafood thoroughly
3. When you are sick, do not prepare food or care for others.
4. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces
5. Wash laundry thoroughly

Click on the PDF attached with this information for further details on the five tips. (The form may be printed by clicking on the print option.)

The information is also available on the Gwinnett Health Department's website.

The Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale County Health Department has information to help protect your family from norovirus.