Two different diseases are causing similar problems at opposite ends of the Valley.

You may not have heard the name Camplyobacter, but the Center for Disease Control said it is one of the most common causes of diarrhea in the US. We usually see it during the warmer months, but this unseasonable winter could be why Augusta Health is seeing more than usual.

Symptoms are diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain, and fever. The illness typically lasts one week and usually goes away on its own. In severe cases, antibiotics could be prescribed.

Another disease is causing nearly identical symptoms in Page County. One doctor said Page County has been absolutely ravaged by norovirus. Like Campylobacter, there is no specific drug to treat it.

But drinking water is very important in both cases to replace fluid lost through diarrhea.

To prevent both maladies be especially attentive to maintaining good hygiene. Also, properly wash and prepare food, and disinfect contaminated surfaces.

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