The Iowa Department of Public Health said Tuesday it has received multiple reports of norovirus outbreaks in the last few weeks.
The health department advised state residents experiencing symptoms of norovirus — such as vomiting and diarrhea — to isolate themselves at home and regularly wash their hands. Symptomatic individuals should also avoid food preparation.
"Anyone with diarrhea or vomiting should not be handling any food items, regardless of how well they wash their hands," said Patricia Quinlisk, MD, medical director of IDPH. "That rule is important no matter if you're cooking for two or 200, whether it's a regular family meal or at a restaurant."
In addition to vomiting and diarrhea, symptoms of norovirus can include stomach pain, fever, vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus causes 56,000 to 71,000 hospitalizations and 570 to 800 deaths every year, according to the CDC.
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