Reports have surfaced recently of the norovirus hitting the Montgomery County area.

According to the Montgomery County Health Department, the norovirus, frequently referred to as the stomach flu, is very contagious and can infect anyone. It may cause stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting, and usually lasts 48 hours or less.

To stay protected from the norovirus, people should remember to wash their hands, rinse fruits and vegetables, cook shellfish thoroughly, clean surfaces and keep clothes clean. If a person has been infected, they should stay at home if at all possible and limit contact with the elderly, newborns and pregnant women. For additional information on the virus, visit cdc.gov/norovirus.