PCDOH is alerting the public to an increasing incidence of gastrointestinal illnesses in the county, as well as the region and the state. PCDOH is investigating reports of gastrointestinal illness associated with several large gatherings in Putnam. Residents are reminded to stay home when sick, and practice frequent and proper handwashing to help prevent illness. This type of illness can be very contagious. If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, do not prepare or handle food for at least 48 hours after your last symptoms. Clean impacted areas right away, then disinfect with a bleach solution or an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against norovirus, which is a common source of gastrointestinal illness. If you are experiencing extreme symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. More information can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/prevention/index.html