Minnesota’s Department of Health (MDH) has reported a significant increase in Norovirus cases, with double the usual number of outbreaks compared to typical years. More than 40 outbreaks have been confirmed this year alone. The highly contagious virus, also known as the stomach flu, poses a threat during the winter months.
Experts advise the public to follow essential hygiene practices: washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding food preparation within three days of symptoms, and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces contaminated with the virus. The MDH notes that hand sanitizer is not effective against Norovirus, making hand-washing crucial.
According to Carlota Meduse from MDH, this year’s spike may be due to a new strain of the virus circulating in the state, similar to previous high-case periods. Various settings, including long-term care facilities, schools, gatherings, and events, have been affected by the outbreak.
Source: https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/mdh-reports-spike-in-norovirus-cases-warns-public-about-spread-of-virus