A virus that can cause "violent" episodes of vomiting and diarrhea for 24 to 48 hours has seen outbreaks across the United States over the last few weeks, now there are signs that the virus is on the rise in Texas.
Norovirus cases are on the rise and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, outbreaks spiked across the United States in December compared to November and while Texas hasn't seen huge outbreaks yet, there are signs that numbers are on the rise in Texas.
According to the CDC, norovirus is a virus that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and food-borne illness. It's also called the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug".
Those who have norovirus will develop symptoms about 12 to 48 hours after being exposed. Along with the symptoms listed above, those who are sick can also get body aches, stomach pain, and even become dehydrated.
The virus spreads through direct contact, sharing utensils, or eating food that has been handled by someone who is sick. You can also catch it by touching a dirty surface, not washing your hands, and putting your fingers in your mouth.
According to FOX7Austin.com, people of all ages can catch the virus, but like many other viruses the very young and very old can be the most impacted.
Norovirus can run rampant through a school, nursing home, and cruise ship.
How To Prevent Norovirus
There isn't much doctors can do if you have norovirus, unless you become dehydrated. And hand sanitizer won't kill the virus either. According to the CDC, wash your hands, wash fruits and vegetables, cook shellfish, wash laundry in hot water, and clean contaminated surfaces.