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

A spokesperson says they are seeing double the amount of outbreaks compared to a typical year. There have already been more than 40 outbreaks reported this year.

The Minnesota Department of Health says there have been more than 40 reported norovirus outbreaks this December, nearly double the usual number. Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, is highly contagious and causes vomiting and diarrhea.

The state’s Department of Health (MDH) says that is almost twice the usual number. “Particularly ahead of holiday gatherings, we want to make sure people are aware of this increase in norovirus outbreaks and taking steps to prevent spreading illness to family or friends,