SAN LUIS VALLEY – A suspected norovirus outbreak in Mesa County has been in the news.

Although the San Luis Valley is not currently experiencing an outbreak, public health authorities want to remind the public of the importance of preventing the spread of gastrointestinal illness, which can be highly contagious. The main symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea.

You can help prevent the spread of disease with these simple but vital steps:

Wash hands with soap and water routinely throughout the day, especially before preparing food and after using the bathroom or after contact with ‘high touch’ surfaces like cell phones, doorknobs, keyboards, light switches, or handrails. Soap and water is best, but sanitizers are better than nothing.

Disease-causing viruses can live on surfaces for months, so proper cleaning is essential. Clean up vomit or feces thoroughly using a disinfectant effective against norovirus (check the label) or using a solution of one cup of bleach with one gallon of water.

If you are sick or showing signs of illness, stay home until you are symptom-free for at least 24 hours.