Minnesota health officials are warning of an outbreak of a highly contagious illness: norovirus. The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting 40 cases of norovirus, otherwise known as the stomach flu.

The department defines an outbreak as an incident in which two or more persons experience a similar illness after a common exposure.

Minnesota health officials are warning of an increase in norovirus cases amidst holiday gatherings. The Minnesota Department of Health on Monday said over 40 outbreaks of the stomach virus have been reported this month, which is almost twice the usual number.

The has received more than 40 reports of norovirus outbreaks so far this December, almost twice the usual number. The department as an incident in which two or more persons experience a similar illness after a common exposure.

Minnesota is facing a significant increase in norovirus outbreaks this December. The Minnesota Department of Health has reported over 40 outbreaks, nearly doubling the usual number. Norovirus is highly contagious and the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the state.

ST. PAUL, Minn. – So far in December, over 40 outbreaks of norovirus have been reported in Minnesota. The state’s Department of Health (MDH) says that is almost twice the usual number.