Feeling Sick? Contagious Stomach Flu Spreading Through New Jersey

It is that time of year and hopefully, you are not dealing with illness in your home, but there is a good chance you may be because we are in the midst of "flu season". Of course "flu" is more severe than the common winter cold. According to the CDC, "Colds are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose than people who have flu. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. Flu can have serious associated complications."

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What months is flu season?

According to the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), "The exact timing and duration of flu seasons varies, but flu activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although significant activity can last as late as May."

What Contagious Stomach Flu Is Spreading In New Jersey?

In a recent Patch article, the CDC has said that a nasty stomach flu has spread across several northeast states including us here in the Garden State. To me, there is nothing worse than the stomach flu. An upset stomach is horrible and the symptoms are very uncomfortable. "Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Often called the "stomach flu" or "food poisoning," anyone can become infected or sick with norovirus, according to the New Jersey Department of Health."

What are the symptoms of Norovirus?

In the Patch article, they cited the early onset of Norovirus. "When infected with norovirus, symptoms usually begin suddenly and last for one or two days, health officials said. In addition to vomiting and diarrhea, symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache and body aches."

Ways to avoid getting ill

According to the New Jersey Department of Health, they recommend that you wash your hands with soap and water, clean and disinfect surfaces with bleach, and wash laundry with hot water.