Norovirus 2016 update, stomach flu now hitting west coast after earlier Chipotle outbreak

The norovirus, stomach flu, is now hitting the west coast after earlier Chipotle outbreak. Norovirus is the leading cause of adult gastroenteritis affecting nearly 21 million Americans annually, this according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The only other virus more common that norovirus is the common cold.

Norovirus is commonly transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water but it can be transmitted from person to person. In the U.S. nearly 50 percent of all outbreaks related to contaminated food or beverage are caused by norovirus. Common foods of contamination of the norovirus include lettuce, fresh fruits and shellfish but overall any raw food that becomes contaminated can transmit the illness when ingested.

Read more on Seattle norovirus outbreak sickens dozens at Seattle retirement community