Stomach Flu Prevention

Prevention

Noroviruses can survive extreme heat and cold. The virus can also live in water with up to 10 parts per million of chlorine. This is much higher than what public water supplies have. There are ways, though, to limit exposure.

To help reduce your chance of getting noroviruses take the following steps:

• Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom (or changing diapers). This is very important before handling food or eating. If you are caring for someone who is infected, make sure the person thoroughly washes his or her hands.
• Wash fruits and vegetables. Steam oysters and clams.
• Do not prepare food if you have symptoms. Wait three days after you have recovered before handling food again.
• Throw away contaminated food.
• If you are ill or caring for someone who is ill, immediately clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces using bleach cleaner. Remove and wash soiled linens. Use hot water and soap.
• If you are sick, do not attend work. Staying home will prevent you from passing the virus to others.
• If you work in a healthcare facility, isolate sick individuals to reduce the virus from spreading.