If you have recently experienced diarrhea and vomiting, it is likely not the local restaurant’s fault.

Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, is on the rise nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

According to information provided by Keven Graves, the county’s communications officer, the Island County Public Health Communicable Disease team has heard of a surge in “stomach bug” in the county via word of mouth from providers, school absenteeism reports and social media posts, which could be attributed to a viral illness.

Norovirus outbreaks are most commonly reported in health care facilities, according to the CDC. The virus is also the leading cause of outbreaks from contaminated foods in the country, with about 50% of all food-related illness caused by norovirus.

An online post about a Whidbey restaurant potentially causing food poisoning led to a lively debate on social media, with users cautioning against jumping to conclusions and harming a business’ reputation. Some pointed out the original poster could instead be dealing with norovirus, which has reportedly affected many around the island regardless of where they have dined or been.

County experts report that there are no confirmed cases of norovirus that was caused by local food businesses as of Thursday afternoon, and there has not been an increase in restaurants potentially getting guests sick. None of the suspected restaurants were proven to have a contaminant that could lead to illness, according to Graves’ email.

It’s hard to say with certainty if norovirus is actually circulating or surging in the county, Graves reported. The virus can only be reported if it’s linked to a health care facility or a food source. Community members who believe they have been infected should reach out to their medical provider. A lab test will then confirm whether it’s norovirus or not.

The virus spreads through the feces and vomit of infected people, getting in another person’s mouth.

The symptoms, according to information by the Island County Public Health department, usually apprear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can consist of “explosive vomiting and/or watery diarrhea,” with frequent cramps that can last up to three days. Some people may also experience a low fever, chills and body aches. People tend to feel better within 24 to 72 hours.

People can get infected when they eat foods that have been contaminated by an infected person who did not wash their hands before serving, or when someone touches a contaminated surface or object and eats or puts their fingers in their mouth before washing their hands. The virus can also travel in the air when people vomit, and can be spread before the infected person starts to feel sick or even two weeks after the person’s symptoms have ended, according to Public Health.

For most people, treatment consists of resting and staying hydrated, as antibiotics or antivirals have proven to be ineffective. Beverages without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration. Young children, seniors and people with other health problems are at increased risk of dehydration, which can be dangerous when the infected person can’t keep liquids down or have severe diarrhea.

The spread of norovirus can be prevented by washing hands frequently with water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer, the county states, is not effective, though it can help if used in addition to water and soap. Disinfecting surfaces with disposable gloves and towels, washing and drying laundry with hot water are recommended after a person vomits or has diarrhea, according to the county.