Norovirus cases tick up in the Northeast

Cases of norovirus have ticked up in the Northeast to their highest levels since last April, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC tracks norovirus levels by region. The Northeast, which encompasses New England, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, had a 13.4% positive test rate as of Feb. 10, the most recent reported data. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health does not track case numbers of norovirus.

Norovirus, often called the stomach bug, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain. A spokesperson for the state's health department recommends that people stay home when they are sick and wash their hands well with soap and water to help reduce spread. Hand sanitizer does not work well to kill the virus, according to the CDC's website, and handwashing is preferable. Sanitizer can be used in addition to hand washing, not as a supplement, says the health agency.

The CDC also notes that norovirus can easily spread through food as the virus is heat resistant and can survive temperatures as high as 145 degrees. Washing fruits and vegetables well before eating, cooking shellfish to temperatures of at least 145 degrees and sanitizing cooking utensils and surfaces is also important.

The agency says those who were sick with norovirus shouldn't prepare food or provide medical care to others for two days after symptoms stop. This recommendation includes workers in food service, health care, daycares and schools.