Surge in Norovirus Instances Reported in Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The Los Angeles County Division of Public Well being mentioned instances of the extremely contagious norovirus are on the rise.

The division advised Eyewitness Information that they use a technique known as wastewater sampling to detect viruses, and that norovirus concentrations detected in wastewater have been growing.

Well being officers mentioned current wastewater checks overlaying a three-week interval confirmed norovirus detection elevated 154% within the metropolis of Los Angeles and over 250% within the county.

“Primarily based on previous traits, Public Well being expects norovirus exercise to rise between November to April, when outbreaks are extra widespread through the cooler months,” mentioned the well being division in a press release.

What’s norovirus?

Norovirus is unfold simply via direct contact with an contaminated individual, consuming contaminated meals or consuming contaminated water, or touching contaminated surfaces then touching your mouth with out washing your fingers.

Signs might begin 12 to 48 hours after publicity and may embrace diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdomen cramping, physique aches, and fever.

What ought to I do to remain protected?

The general public well being division shared the next tricks to shield your self.

• Wash your fingers regularly, particularly after utilizing the toilet and earlier than consuming.

• Wash vegatables and fruits fastidiously and totally prepare dinner shellfish. The division say norovirus is killed above 60C /140F – freezing doesn’t kill it.

• Clear and disinfect contaminated surfaces, garments, or linens instantly after getting sick with a bleach-based family cleaner.

• If contaminated, do not prepare dinner meals for others for 3 days after recovering from the sickness.