Truth matters. Community matters. Your support makes both possible. LAist is one of the few places where news remains independent and free from political and corporate influence. Stand up for truth and for LAist. Make your year-end tax-deductible gift now.
Norovirus is up in LA County so now's a good time to remember to wash your hands
Symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
(
Grace Cary
/
Getty Images
)
Listen
0:31
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)