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MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. – Norovirus outbreaks are being seen in at least eight counties across the state. The Center for Disease Control says the gastrointestinal illness is very contagious and estimate 21 million cases of the virus occur each year.

Elaine Crittenton is the Director of Infection Prevention at Carteret General Hospital. She said the norovirus spreads quickly and causes significant illness.

"The pain in the abdomen can be very significant, the vomiting with the virus can be profound and the diarrhea profound as well,” said Crittenton.

Doctors said to avoid contact with others if you experience any of those symptoms.  

"The transmissibility is very high with the norovirus," said Crittenton.  "It takes such a small amount of the virus in order to make you sick so it's very difficult to contain it."

Infection preventionist Kathy Salter explains the best way to avoid catching the virus.

"One of the most important ways you can prevent the transmission of getting any infection is proper hand-washing and you would do the same in regards to preventing the norovirus," said Salter.

Nurses say to use soap and water – not alcohol-based hand sanitizers because they are not as effective.

"Take every precaution, good hygiene, good housekeeping measures, think about the commonly touched areas, that's generally how these things spread," said Crittenton.

One of the most common results of the virus is dehydration. Medical professionals say anyone who has the virus should try and stick to a liquid diet while the symptoms are active and re-introduce solid foods gradually.

While no treatment is available, doctors say the virus should run its course within 72 hours. They encourage anyone who may have the virus to stay away from public places for at least 48 hours after the symptom are over because the virus can still be transmittable.