Feeling sick? Then report it as soon as possible!

In time for the annual peak in norovirus cases and outbreaks, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has launched a new online tool (https://sr.wi. gov/#/form/p/foodborne), to encourage Wisconsinites to report food or water sickness, when symptoms occur.

The online questionnaire, which takes less than five minutes to complete, helps local health departments identify sources of contamination, to prevent others from getting sick. This tool is especially important, as cases of norovirus, the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, tends to spike in the winter.

Ingesting contaminated food and water may cause just a little stomach upset for some, for others, it can lead to hospitalization and be life threatening.

“We’re asking people – when you’re feeling sick, report it quick,” said said DHS state health officer Paula Tran.

Contaminated food or water can come from a variety of sources, including food from grocery stores or restaurants, or water from pools, lakes or rivers. Certain bacteria, viruses or parasites, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

In Wisconsin and the United States, it is believed these illnesses are under-reported, since many people who are infected, get better without seeing a doctor. This new online tool is just one way for public health professionals to learn about food and water-related illnesses, and outbreaks, to help prevent others from getting sick, too.

The tool is not a substitute for healthcare and people who are feeling sick, should contact their healthcare provider.

The new tool is a simple questionnaire that asks for current symptoms, places recently visited and food items recently eaten. The information is sent to local health departments that identify potential sources of illness.

If additional information is needed, public health specialists may contact Wisconsinites, who report their illness. All follow-up will remain confidential.