Health and Medicine
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Stomach flu cases are rising in Cuyahoga County
More than 60 people became ill in outbreaks in nursing homes
by WKSU's LYNDSEY SCHLEY |
Reporter
Lyndsey Schley | | |
 | | The norovirus is often called the stomach flu, but it is not a strain of influenza. | | Courtesy of Centers for Disease Control |
Cases of the norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, are rising with three clusters appearing in Cuyahoga County nursing homes.
Chris Kippes, with the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, says at least 60 people have gotten sick.
Kippes says the virus can transfer easily, so it is important to wash your hands and stay at home if you are sick.
He says if you catch the virus, the best way to take care of yourself is to drink lots of fluids. |
LISTEN: Kippes on norovirusOther options:  MP3 Download (0:15)
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“One of the main side effects for norovirus is becoming dehydrated," Kippes says. "That is because you’re losing a lot of fluids either through the nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.”
Kippes also says people who have the virus can still be contagious up to 72 hours after symptoms subside.
While often called the stomach flu, Kippes says it is not truly a strain of influenza. |
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