As Humber College deals with an outbreak of Norovirus that left nearly 200 students sick, local public health officials say it’s not uncommon for the contagious illness to rear its ugly head at this time of year.

Cases of the extremely contagious virus typically rise between October and April, and often cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, among other symptoms.

Brenda Miller, Manager of Health Protection and Investigation with the Region of Waterloo says it’s very easy to spread it.

“Touching common surfaces, sharing a lot of shared space together just allows it to circulate quite quickly,” said Miller.

“In the past, we have had long-term care facilities involved with outbreaks. We do know, it’s circulating out there in the community right now so it’s not something unforseen or something that we don’t expect at this particular time.”

You can protect yourself and your kids from Norovirus by washing your hands thoroughly and often, and it’s recommended you stay home from work or school if you come down with the virus.