The Iowa Department of Public Health has recorded some norovirus outbreaks (also known as Norwalk Virus) this holiday season. They think holiday potlucks and parties are the culprit.
There have been eight fairly large outbreaks of the disease, involving up to 20 people each, in five counties over the last 10 days. Illnesses have been reported in Black Hawk, Linn, Kossuth, Polk, and Scott counties. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the virus may be spreading state-wide.
Norovirus is very contagious. It’s usually spread by sick people preparing food for others. It causes stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The illness starts 24 to 48 hours after exposure and can last for a few days. The only treatment is to rest and stay hydrated. Some people may require hospitalization for dehydration, although most people recover completely in a few days.
Norovirus can’t be identified with a DNA test, unlike Salmonella and other foodborne bacteria. One source of the outbreak may have been a restaurant where food handlers were sick. Iowa state law prohibits the identification of the restaurant involved, since there is no direct public health risk such as an outbreak of Hepatitis A.
If you are ill, don’t prepare food for others for at least two days after you have fully recovered. Wash your hands frequently while preparing food and always follow food safety rules.
