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Health

Norovirus is up in LA County so now's a good time to remember to wash your hands

A woman clutches her stomach in pain.
Symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
(
Grace Cary
/
Getty Images
)

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Norovirus is up in LA County so now's a good time to remember to wash your hands
The L.A. County Department of Public Health says norovirus cases – or the stomach flu – are on the rise.

The L.A. County Department of Public Health says cases of norovirus — or the stomach flu — are on the rise.

Officials say over a three-week period ending Dec. 11, wastewater detection of norovirus increased by more than 250% countywide and 154% within the city of L.A.

The virus is very contagious, and is spread through direct contact with someone who has it, by eating contaminated food or by touching a contaminated surface, then touching your mouth.

Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting and usually show up 12-48 hours after exposure. Children under 5 and older adults are more likely to experience more severe effects from the virus.

How to protect yourself

Public health officials say people should:

  • Wash their hands frequently, especially before eating or preparing food or going to the bathroom
  • Wash fruits and vegetables and thoroughly cook shellfish
  • Clean infected surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner (alcohol won’t kill norovirus)
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