Norovirus determined to be cause of gastrointestinal illness in Adams County Jail

QUINCY — The Adams County Health Department has been working with the Adams County Sheriff’s Department during the past few days to determine the cause of a gastrointestinal illness infecting prisoners at the Adams County Jail. The illness was determined to be caused by norovirus through samples sent to a lab at the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It can be easily spread through direct contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or water and touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth. To prevent the spread of norovirus, individuals should practice proper hand hygiene, handle and prepare food safely and clean and disinfect surfaces properly.

The Adams County Health Department consulted with the Adams County Jail to advise of proper cleaning and prevention measures to mitigate the situation and stop the spread of the norovirus.