Dutchess County Department of Health

News Release
Marcus J. Molinaro County Executive Michael C. Caldwell, MD, MPH Commissioner of Health

Date: February 10, 2012 Contact: Michael C. Caldwell, MD, MPH, Commissioner of Health 914-474-7899

Increase in Gastrointestinal Illness in Dutchess County

The Dutchess County Department of Health has noted a significant increase in gastrointestinal illnesses within Dutchess County. Symptoms include: vomiting and/or diarrhea (episodes of three or more within a 24 hour period), nausea, malaise or stomach cramps. This outbreak appears to be due to a Noroviruslike virus. Norovirus is typically very contagious and persons can become infected by having direct contact with an ill person, eating or drinking contaminated food or liquids, and/or by touching contaminated surfaces and then placing their hand in their mouth. The DCDOH is recommending the following to help prevent the spread of infection: Wash hands thoroughly and frequently especially after going to the bathroom and before handling food Use of gloves should be used when cleaning diarrhea and/or vomit (use of masks is recommended when cleaning vomit) People who experience symptoms should not attend work or handle food Do not share personal items Avoid drinking untreated water Cook shellfish thoroughly before eating In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using paper towels, not a mop, when cleaning vomit. The surrounding area should be disinfected with a bleach solution of 1/4 cup of household bleach in a gallon of water. For more information on Norovirus and how to reduce your risk, please visit: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus.htm ###

Dutchess County Department of Health

387 Main Street, Poughkeepsie NY 12601 (845) 486-3400 Fax (845) 486-3447 TTY (845) 486-3417