Yolo County health officials are investigating what appears to be a Norovirus outbreak. The Health and Human Services Agency says they are working to positively identify the organism causing the present outbreak, but the most common cause of widespread GI illness is Norovirus, more commonly called the stomach flu.
"Numerous schools have reported high numbers of students and staff" calling in sick with signs of a stomach illness from Woodland to West Sacramento and Davis. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps, and they can last for one to three days. It advised that any with Norovirus stay home and not go to work or school for two days after symptoms disappear. Three Sacramento County schools are closed for the second day because of a Norovirus outbreak. Elverta Elementary, Alpha Middle School, and Alpha Charter School will remain closed until at least Monday.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say regular hand washing, especially after using the bathroo or before eating food, can help prevent the spread of Norovirus. It is also recommended to thoroughly clean surfaces, like kitchen counters and door handles, with disinfecting wipes.