The highly contagious gastrointestinal illness norovirus is making an appearance across the state, striking eight counties over the past six weeks. Public health officials have reported outbreaks of the virus in Cascade, Fergus, Flathead, Gallatin, Meagher, Missoula, Silver Bow and Yellowstone counties, similar to what they observed last year.

Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, causes symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. The infection can present suddenly and symptoms can be severe but often resolve without treatment within one to three days. However, the illness can persist in more vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and those with chronic health ailments.

Norovirus occurs most often in closed-in and crowded environments like schools, daycares and nursing homes, according to the Mayo Clinic. The virus can also be spread by contact with contaminated food and water or individuals, making places such as hotels or cruise ship potential hotbeds for the virus as well.

“Different strains of norovirus can circulate through the state and there is no vaccine,” said Dana Fejes of the DPHHS Communicable Disease Epidemiology Section. “Your best method of prevention is to wash your hands often with soap and water. Once infected, stay hydrated to avoid complications.”

To prevent the spread of norovirus, public health officials recommend practicing proper hygiene and clean practices in the kitchen, such as washing fruits and vegetables and ensuring that seafood is thoroughly cooked. The Montana Department of Health and Human Services advisers that infected persons wash laundry thoroughly and clean surfaces, especially after throwing up or having diarrhea. The department recommends using a chlorine bleach solution, such as household bleach that has been labeled as effective against the virus.

To find out more information about norovirus, visit the DPHHS website at www.dphhs.mt.gov.

Reporter Mackenzie Reiss may be reached at 758-4433 or mreiss@dailyinterlake.com.