County sees rise in stomach-related illness cases – Garfield County, Colorado
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Senior man clutching his stomach in pain.

County sees rise in stomach-related illness cases

Garfield County Public Health issues community health advisory

PRESS RELEASE
January 29, 2026

Garfield County is currently experiencing an increase in stomach-related illness, often caused by norovirus. Many people, schools, and organizations are reporting illness.

Norovirus and other stomach-related illnesses may cause:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain/cramps
  • Headache

Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea among people of all ages in the United States. Although most people develop only mild symptoms and recover without medical treatment, norovirus can be serious. There is no medication to treat norovirus but call your health care provider if you’re dehydrated or symptoms have not improved within four days of becoming ill. It is important to stay hydrated when you are ill with norovirus.

The best way to stop norovirus from spreading and protect yourself and your loved ones is to wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Hand sanitizer alone is not effective against norovirus.

If you have had contact with someone who has been ill, it may take up to two days to begin experiencing symptoms.

Norovirus is transmitted by:

  • Direct contact with someone who is ill with norovirus, such as caring for them.
  • People touching surfaces contaminated with norovirus and then touching your hands to your mouth.
  • Eating food or drinking beverages that are contaminated with norovirus

You can stop it from spreading once someone in your household is ill by:

  • Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with bleach or another product approved for norovirus. Many cleaning products, including most wipes and hand sanitizers, do not work against norovirus. Check the product label to determine if that product kills norovirus.
  • Avoiding preparing food for others when you are ill and for two days after your symptoms stop.
  • Staying home when you’re ill and for two days after symptoms stop.
  • Washing laundry in hot water.

Garfield County Public Health information is provided online on the Public Health website.