CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - A new strain of Norovirus is impacting children and adults, and it's spreading in our state.   Ludlow updating new tobacco sales guidelines Respiratory illnesses continue to surge, that's because it's colder and more people are indoors allowing germs to spread, but it can be prevented.  “We are seeing an increase in Covid, RSV, and Influenza, and a lot of that stems from people that are out with their families during the holiday,” said Dr. Shukla, Associate Chief Medical Officer, Cooley Dickinson. As illnesses continue to increase across the state, a new strain of Norovirus is putting new year festivities on hold for some. The stomach bug is surging during the winter. It's responsible for one million pediatric medical visits annually. “I think a lot of it is prevention make sure your coughing into your sleeve, if your sick don't go to work or school, prevent droplets to spreading around you, wearing mask when appropriate,” said Dr. Shukla. The virus is contracted by consuming contaminated food, water, or through an infected person. Though there is no vaccine to prevent the stomach bug. Experts recommend protecting yourself from further illness by getting the flu or Covid shot. Cleaning surfaces with bleach is also a way to kill bacteria, as Norovirus is not affected by hand sanitizer. Washing your hands with warm water and soap is your best defense.  “When people are in small surroundings together it's easily spread,” said Dr. Shukla. According to the Bureau of Infectious Disease, there's been a steady increase in reported Norovirus cases in recent years. Some of those symptoms of Norovirus include body aches and dehydration, lasting anywhere from one to three days.  Case numbers are typically highest in February and March. Local News Headlines Death investigation at Panera Bread in East Longmeadow Penguin Plunge in Westfield that supports Amelia Park Children’s Museum canceled 10,000 lost power in Franklin County due to issue at substation Suspect arrested for armed robbery at Sam’s Food Store in Sturbridge WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.