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How to Prevent the Norovirus

Updated: Friday, February 8 2013, 02:02 AM EST
COLUMBUS -- The Columbus Health Department says nearly 150 central Ohio residents have gotten sick from a new type of norovirus.
 
It's called the Sydney strain, because it was first found in Australia.

The virus spreads from vomit or fecal matter.

Because there's no vaccine and people can't become immune to it, Columbus Health Department Medical Director Mysheika Williams Roberts says best way to prevent it is to thoroughly wash your hands.

Also, try not share a bathroom with an infected person.

Hand sanitizer alone isn't recommended.

If you do become sick, Roberts advises to drink plenty of fluids and avoid contact with others.
 
Because chefs and cooks at home have contact with food, the chances for contamination are high.

ABC 6/ FOX 28 spoke to Barry Young, a hospitality instructor at Columbus State Community College who teaches basic cooking and restaurant safety.

He has his students check the pH of their cleaning solution as well as wash their hands with soap multiple times per day.
 
"Touching the door when you come out of the bathroom--that is an enormous place of contamination because--who touched the door previously from you?" Young said.
 
Young also strongly advises to not use a handheld cell phone in the kitchen, because the devices are rarely sanitized.
 
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Reporter: Jen French
Web Producer: Kellie HannaHow to Prevent the Norovirus