While influenza has dominated the headlines, with a widespread outbreak across the nation, health officials also want to remind Hoosiers this is also norovirus, or stomach flu season too. The Indiana State Department of Health reports a new strain of the stomach flu has appeared in Indiana, however, it does not carry worse symptoms than others. State Health Commissioner William Van Ness II, M-D, says flu shots do not prevent the norovirus, and while it is very contagious and easily spread, prevention against it is similar to flu prevention in the need to frequently wash hands, disinfect contaminated surfaces, wash soiled clothing, to avoid preparing food if you are not feeling well.
Signs and symptoms of norovirus (“Stomach Flu”) versus Influenza (Flu):
 
Norovirus (“Stomach Flu”)
·        abdominal cramps
·        vomiting
·        nausea
·        watery diarrhea
·        fever (usually slight)
·        headache
·        fatigue
 
Influenza (Flu)
·        fever 101 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
·        headache 
·        fatigue
·        cough
·        muscle aches
·        sore throat
# # #