Flu, Norovirus Bugging Boston While seasonal influenza remains
the city's main health issue, officials say the stomach bug is
widespread right now, too. The Boston area is seeing more than
just the flu this time of year. The “winter vomiting bug,” or
norovirus, is making its rounds as well. “The norovirus, which
many people call the stomach flu, is widespread this year,” said
Katinka Podmaniczky, assistant director of communications for
the Boston Public Health Commission. “We encourage everyone to
take simple precautions to protect themselves and others, like
washing hands frequently and staying home if you feel sick.” In
Boston, right now about 2.5 percent of all emergency room visits
are related to accute gastrointenstinal problems, which may or
may not be caused by a norovirus, according to a Health
Commission report. This time last year, that number was just
over 3 percent. The commission did not have data for the total
number of people reporting GI issues outside the ER. Seasonal
influenza—in particular