Seasonal virus cases remain high in Cook County

As winter wears on, so too does virus season in Northeast Minnesota.

While cases of pertussis are on the decline after a statewide outbreak, Cook County Public Health and Human Services Public Health Supervisor Grace Grinager told WTIP that there are other illnesses present in the community. This is peak influenza season, according to Grinager, and the county has also seen a surge in norovirus cases.

Though both illnesses are sometimes referred to as “flu,” they are distinct viruses, with different symptoms.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists the symptoms of influenza as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. Not everyone suffering from influenza will have all of the symptoms, and according to the CDC, gastrointestinal symptoms are most common in children.

In contrast, the primary symptoms of norovirus are vomiting and diarrhea.

Both viruses are highly contagious, though Grinager highlighted how easily norovirus can be spread. She also warned that those infected with norovirus can continue to spread the illness for more than a week after they have recovered.

As viruses continue to spread through the community, Grinager gave what she called “good old, dependable advice” for staying healthy.

“Please stay home when you’re sick, wash your hands, cover your cough,” she said, “Make sure you’re not out there spreading these diseases further than they are already going. And when it comes to flu, get your flu shot.”

WTIP’s Kirsten Wisniewski spoke with Cook County Public Health and Human Services Public Health Supervisor Grace Grinager about viral season in the area. Audio of that interview can be found below.

Kirsten Wisniewski February 17, 2025