Norovirus is on the rise in Iowa.

The virus, commonly called stomach virus, can cause vomiting and diarrhea and is very easy to contract according to Marion County Public Health Nurse Judi Van Hulzen. She says even microscopic amounts of vomit or fecal matter can transmit the virus. Van Hulzen says the most effective way of preventing the disease from spreading is to wash hands thoroughly and often. Historically, norovirus has caused some temporary school shutdowns in Iowa, but hasn’t so far this year.