Norovirus is occurring in many parts of Montana, health officials said Friday.

This condition is characterized by the sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea and spreads easily, especially in households and group gatherings. The key to preventing norovirus is simple, officials stress. Practicing good hand hygiene, observing appropriate food-handling procedures and staying home if you are sick are all effective ways to prevent the spread of norovirus.

“All people need to do is remember to wash their hands adequately,” said DPHHS director Anna Whiting Sorrell. “While this infection is highly transmissible, good hygiene practices can really make a difference in reducing the spread of norovirus.” The disease, which lasts only one to three days, is usually not serious, although sometimes people become dehydrated and may need special medical attention. Dehydration problems are usually seen among the very young, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.

Health officials urge persons with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea to:

• Stay home and away from public gatherings,

• Drink plenty of fluids so you don’t become dehydrated,

• Wash your hands often with soap and water to prevent infecting others,

• Contact your health care provider, by phone if your illness is severe and remember that antibiotics are not used to treat viruses,

• Avoid preparing food for others while you have symptoms and for at least three days after you recover.