Michigan Warned As Fast-Moving Stomach Bug Spreads

Flu season is officially here in Michigan, and a lot of Michiganders are doing their best to avoid getting sick right now. There’s a new bug making its rounds here in Michigan, and it moves fast.

Health officials say cases of norovirus, the classic stomach bug, are on the rise across the country, and we’re seeing that here in Michigan, too.

What Is Norovirus And How Does It Spread?

Numbers released by the CDC show that norovirus tests have doubled in the last few months. Reports from hospitals, labs, and health departments nationwide have crunched the numbers, and those winter blues could be a lot worse for you.

Many of us are crowding indoors, which gives this virus, and any virus, a better chance to jump from person to person.

Common Norovirus Symptoms In Michiganders

Norovirus hits hard and suddenly. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, the most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Some people also deal with a low-grade fever, chills, headache, body aches, and feeling completely wiped out.

Most people start to feel better within a day or two, but the big concern is dehydration, especially if you can’t keep liquids down.

Simple Ways To Lower Your Risk At Home

The virus is very contagious. You can pick it up by having close contact with someone who is sick, eating or drinking something that’s contaminated, or touching a dirty surface and then touching your mouth. It doesn’t take much to catch this bug.

There’s nothing that will truly make norovirus disappear. The best you can do is disinfect high-touch surfaces and pay extra attention to kitchens and bathrooms. If you do get sick, stay home, sip fluids regularly, and keep your distance from others.