Norovirus cases rising across LA County, health department says

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued an alert regarding a rise in norovirus cases. According to the department, wastewater sampling indicates increasing concentrations of the highly contagious virus.

Recent tests of wastewater over a three-week period revealed a significant jump in norovirus detection. The city of Los Angeles saw an increase of 154%, while the county as a whole experienced a rise of over 250%.

In a statement, the health department noted that norovirus activity typically increases between November and April, with outbreaks becoming more frequent during the cooler months. This expectation is based on historical trends.

Norovirus spreads easily through various means. These include direct contact with an infected individual, consuming contaminated food or water, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth without washing your hands.

Symptoms of norovirus usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, body aches, and fever.

To protect yourself, the public health department recommends the following precautions:

• Wash your hands frequently, particularly after using the restroom and before eating.
• Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables and ensure shellfish is fully cooked. Norovirus is killed at temperatures above 140°F (60°C); freezing does not eliminate the virus.
• Immediately clean and disinfect any contaminated surfaces, clothing, or linens with a bleach-based household cleaner after someone is sick.