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An outbreak of norovirus is occurring in many parts of Montana, according to Montana health officials.

Infection is characterized by the sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea and spreads easily, especially in households and group gatherings.

The key to preventing norovirus is practicing good hand hygiene, observing appropriate food-handling procedures, and staying home if you are sick.

Anna Whiting Sorrell, director of the MT Public Health & Human Service agency, noted, "All people need to do is remember to wash their hands adequately. While this infection is highly transmissible, good hygiene practices can really make a difference in reducing the spread of norovirus."

The disease, which often lasts only one to three days, is usually not serious, although sometimes people become dehydrated and may need special medical attention. Dehydration problems are usually seen among the very young, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.

DPHHS offers the following advice for people who believe they have contracted norovirus:
- Stay home and away from public gatherings,
- Drink plenty of fluids so you don't become dehydrated,
- Wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent infecting others,
- Contact your health care provider, by phone if your illness is severe and remember that antibiotics are not used to treat viruses,
- Avoid preparing food for others while you have symptoms and for at least 3 days after you recover.

The best precaution to help prevent the spread of norovirus is frequent and thorough hand-washing.

Bonnie Barnard, an epidemiologist for DPHHS, said, "Wash your hands - thoroughly and carefully with soap and water - after using the bathroom, before consuming food, and before preparing food for yourself or others. If everybody did that, we could prevent a majority of the illness caused by these and other viruses."

DPHHS offers additional information on their website.