Atlanta — The U.S. has seen a slow surge of norovirus, the country’s leading cause of foodborne illness, with the Center of Disease Control advising caution and higher levels of cleanliness. However, norovirus can defeat most household cleaners, according to a National Institute of Food and Agriculture report.

Unfortunately, one expected tool — hand sanitizer — simply isn't as effective against this particular pathogen. Norovirus is very contagious, the CDC warns, and it spreads from person to person quickly and easily.

Norovirus, a familiar and repeat offender, is responsible for many recently increased reports of illnesses in Wyoming, according to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH).

Hand sanitizer alone isn't enough to protect you from norovirus, experts say. So it's important to know how to stay safe and wash your hands properly.