The Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services is advising residents to take preventive measures against norovirus amid reports of increasing cases nationally and internationally.
DPHSS said local surveillance data does not indicate an alarming rise in norovirus or other gastroenteric illnesses in Guam, but officials urged the public to remain vigilant and continue practicing prevention strategies.
Norovirus, commonly known as the “stomach flu,” is a highly contagious virus that spreads through direct contact with an infected person, consumption of contaminated food or liquids, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain.
Health officials said most people recover within one to three days, but young children, older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe symptoms.
DPHSS encouraged the community to reduce the risk of exposure by washing hands frequently with soap and water, thoroughly cooking shellfish, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, and staying home for at least two days after symptoms resolve.
Residents were directed to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for additional information on norovirus and to the Guam Communicable Disease Dashboard for the latest local surveillance data.