Hi, I’m Dr. Mike Brown, your university physician. My goal is to help you stay healthy so you can thrive at work and beyond. Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and intestinal cramps. It spreads easily through contaminated food, surfaces or close contact with an infected person.

The virus is tough — it only takes a small amount to make you sick, and alcohol-based hand sanitizers don’t kill it! Instead, you’ll need to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds to effectively remove it. If you’re feeling sick, stay home until you’ve been symptom-free for at least 24 hours to avoid spreading it to others.

Disinfect surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner, wash fruits and vegetables before eating and avoid preparing food for others if you’re unwell. These simple steps can help protect you and those around you from this unpleasant virus.

Stay healthy!