Norovirus and Influenza
Norovirus and influenza are both highly contagious viruses that can cause significant illness.
Norovirus
Noroviruses are a group of very contagious viruses that cause stomach illness. People of all ages can get infected and become sick.
Symptoms
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
These common symptoms can develop within 48 hours of being exposed to the virus. Individuals can also be at risk of developing symptoms of dehydration.
Transmission
A very small amount of virus can make you sick. You can become infected by:
- Eating or drinking food or water contaminated with norovirus.
- Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then touching their mouth or eating without washing their hands.
- Having direct contact with someone who is sick with norovirus.
Prevention
Wash your hands well after:
- Changing diapers
- Touching common surfaces
- Shaking hands
- Caring for sick people
Read more about norovirus. (link)
Influenza
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness, caused by the influenza virus. Influenza activity peaks between December and February.
Symptoms
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Body ache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Symptoms can occur quickly. Some people with influenza virus infections experience vomiting and diarrhea, while other people do not develop any symptoms at all.
Transmission
The influenza virus is spread by droplets from a person with the flu through coughing, talking or sneezing.
Prevention
The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. MATC hosts immunization clinics on each campus yearly (October-December).
The Centers for Disease Control also recommends:
- Avoiding sick people
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Washing hands frequently
Read more about influenza (link).