Norovirus and the stomach flu aren't the same thing. Here's what doctors wish patients knew, from the American Medical Association.

William Schaffner: The most important thing is good hand hygiene. Washing with soap and water works the best. Those hand hygiene gels and wipes – the hand sanitizers – that people tend to use aren’t as effective against norovirus, so just wash frequently with good old soap and water. And then, of course, avoid people who are sick.

Broward Health Dr. Craig Harrison is an emergency care physician. On Wednesday he said there has been an increase in upper respiratory infections.

It's that time of year: highly contagious illnesses like the flu, COVID-19 and Norovirus are spreading in the Tampa Bay area just in time for Saturday's Gasparilla Pirate Fest.

HEALTH OFFICIALS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE SAY FIVE PEOPLE HAVE DIED FROM THE FLU SO FAR THIS SEASON, AS WE’VE BEEN REPORTING. AS YOU PROBABLY NOTICED IN YOUR DAILY LIFE, THE STATE IS SEEING HIGH NUMBERS OF RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES,

Things to do in Gainesville, FL. Find local events, weekend festivals, and free attractions for families, or promote your own event.

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Respiratory viruses are at high or very high levels across most of the country. Here is a snapshot of how Florida is faring.

Among 1,894 guests aboard Princess’ Coral Princess ship, 59 reported being ill during its current voyage, along with 12 crew members, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Their main symptoms were vomiting and diarrhea caused by norovirus, according to the health agency.

While individual flu cases are not reported in Florida, the state did say that there were 13 outbreaks in eight counties, including two in Seminole County, one in Orange County, and one in Volusia County.

Coral Princess is scheduled to arrive in Fort Lauderdale on February 5. Although afflicted passengers can recover from the illness in one to three days, the CDC reports they may still spread norovirus for up to two weeks from recovery, which is well after the Princess Cruises ship arrives at port.