Wellington-Dufferin- Guelph Public Health says outbreaks of norovirus infection are being reported to the health unit.

Symptoms often begin suddenly and may include watery diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, headache, fever, chills and sore throat.

As a result, Wellington- Dufferin-Guelph Public Health recommends that anyone who is experiencing symptoms - especially vomiting or diarrhea - stay at home until they are symptom free for at least 48 hours. This will help to stop the spread of the illness.

"Norovirus spreads very easily and outbreaks are especially common in our schools, nursing homes and hospitals," says Cameron Clark, program manager, health protection at WDG Public Health in Orangeville.

To prevent spreading the virus :

+ Wash your hands with soap and water, after coughing, sneezing, wiping a nose, after visiting the washroom, before eating, and before preparing food.

+ Cover your mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

+ Don't share your food, drink or eating utensils with others.

+ Anyone ill with diarrhea should not prepare food for other people. In particular, people with diarrhea should not work in restaurants, daycare centres, or medical settings.

+ Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of diarrhea or vomiting. Use a bleach-based household cleaner. Allow the solution to stand for one full minute before wiping.

+ Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated.

+ Flush or discard any vomit and/or stool in the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.

For most healthy individuals, drinking plenty of fluids and resting at home is sufficient to recover from a norovirus infection and there is no need for hospital treatment. However, the elderly or very young can sometimes experience exaggerated symptoms. If you are concerned about someone's medical condition, you should talk to your doctor.

For more information about norovirus, visit wdghu.org