STUDY: Norovirus can be contracted by swimming in lakes

File photo.

Friday, May 15, 2015, 7:13 PM - Now that warmer weather is here, Oregon officials are reminding residents to take precautions when swimming in lakes and pools.

In July 2014, public health officials traced a norovirus outbreak back to Blue Lake Regional Park in Oregon, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) says in a report released Thursday.

At the time, 65 probable and five confirmed cases of norovirus were documented.

Analysis revealed that people who swam in Blue Lake between July 12 and 13 were more than twice as likely to become ill as people who did not swim in the lake. It's believed the infection was spread through the lake after a swimmer vomited in the water.

RELATED: Hundreds ill after cruise ship viral outbreak

WHAT IS NOROVIRUS?

Norovirus is often referred to as the 'cruise ship bug', following a 2014 outbreak that left hundreds of people sick with stomach pains and nausea.

Health officials are hoping to avoid a repeat of last year's outbreaks by recommending a few safety precautions.

"Simple tips can help swimmers stay safe in various swimming venues," The Center for Disease Control (CDC) says in a statement.

"When most people think of norovirus, they think of people marooned on a cruise ship with raging stomach and intestinal illness, unable to leave their cabins. However, an outbreak at an Oregon lake underscores that swimming can also put the public at risk of catching the ugly bug. Fortunately, following a few easy and effective steps can help maximize the health benefits of swimming while minimizing the risk of getting sick."

PREVENTING NOROVIRUS

Swimmers can help protect themselves, their families and friends by following a few easy and effective steps: 

People visiting public lakes and pools are advised to:

• Avoid swimming if suffering from diarrhea or vomiting
• Shower before getting in the water
• Get out of the water to use the bathroom
• Avoid swallowing lake or pool water
• Take children on bathroom breaks at least once an hour
• Change diapers at a designated station to avoid germs getting into the water

Sources: CDC | Weather.com