Prevent the flu by washing your hands: GN

Nunavut’s health department says a stomach illness has affected a number of communities this week, causing residents to have nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

While the illness is not uncommon at this time of year, health officials are asking residents to take precautions to prevent it from spreading.

Nunavummiut should wash their hands often to avoid spreading the illness, the health department said in a May 14 release.

Residents should also keep surfaces and utensils clean with soap and hot water, wash fruits and vegetables, ensure meat is cooked thoroughly.

Anyone with symptoms of the illness should stay home, rest and drink fluids, health officials said.

And if you have had symptoms for longer than 48 hours, the GN advises residents to call their local health centre.