The NM Dept of Health (NMDOH) has noticed an outbreak in norovirus cases.
Norovirus is a “stomach bug” that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, sweats, viral muscle aches, fatigue), and potentially dehydration.
It is spread from one person who has norovirus to an uninfected person, most commonly through sharing food & drink items, but can also be spread through contact of infected droplets of vomit or diarrhea.
Risk of obtaining norovirus can be decreased with proper hand hygiene.
There is no cure– norovirus goes away with time.
Please note that antibiotics never treat a viral infection such as norovirus, as antibiotics only treat bacteria.
If you do get any stomach virus, the most important treatment is to maintain hydration using clear bland fluids that your stomach can tolerate.
If we do see you in clinic for any stomach virus, we can provide nausea medications for you to take home.
It is important to seek medical care immediately if you are unable to maintain hydration on your own.
If a household member or close contact becomes ill with a stomach virus: surfaces, clothing, and linens should be disinfected to prevent spread. (Clean surfaces with bleach-based cleaners. Wash clothes & linens with detergent and hot water, then dry on the hottest temperature cycle.)
You can visit the CDC page for more information on norovirus: https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/index.html