New Mexico is currently experiencing an uptick in norovirus cases, with the New Mexico Department of Health reporting five outbreaks in the state since December. Norovirus is a contagious illness that typically increases in outbreaks from November to April, according to the CDC. The most common symptoms include stomach pains, nausea, and diarrhea. Health experts are warning residents to be vigilant, as norovirus can easily spread through contaminated surfaces or being in close proximity to someone who is sick. There is no specific treatment or vaccine for norovirus, and people generally recover within three days. Hand washing is emphasized as the best prevention method, as the virus is not killed by hand sanitizer. Nancy Laster, the chief nursing officer at Lovelace Hospital, notes an increase in cases this time of year is not unusual due to more people being indoors and in close quarters during the winter. If individuals have questions or need to report cases of norovirus, they can contact the NMDOH helpline for assistance.
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Increase in norovirus cases reported in New Mexico
