Health advisory issued over stomach illness circulating in Igloolik

With the norovirus stomach ailment circulating through Igloolik, residents there are being advised on ways to protect themselves.

The illness, which is not uncommon early in the year, is easily spread from person to person and could quickly move through the entire community, the Health Department warned in an advisory issued Friday afternoon.

Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, fever and diarrhea.

To avoid the norovirus, people are urged to wash their hands often, especially before preparing food or after changing a baby’s diaper or using the washroom.

Surfaces like countertops, doorknobs and in bathrooms should be washed with hot, soapy water and people should avoid contact with others who are sick, the department advised.

As well, children should be helped to wash their hands and their toys can be cleaned along with the other surfaces. Kissing and touching babies can also spread germs.

The health department advised people suffering severe symptoms to seek medical care. More information on the norovirus is on the Department of Health webpage.