If you’re unlucky enough to encounter this virus, here’s what you need to know to get through the next few days.

Here's what you need to know about norovirus, or the stomach flu. According to the CDC, "norovirus is a very contagious virus" that causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines and leads to vomiting and diarrhea.

A stomach illness outbreak at the University of Guelph is part of a trend that has experts noticing a rise in stomach bugs causing vomiting and diarrhea.

A surge in norovirus cases might be explained by a new strain of the virus, which now reportedly makes up a majority of outbreaks across the U.S. This winter’s dominant norovirus strain is a newer variant called the G11.

Reported cases of norovirus — a brief, but miserable illness — have generally been rising across the country in recent months, according to national data, but people can help protect themselves by practicing good hygiene.