Minnesota health officials are warning of an outbreak of a highly contagious illness: norovirus.The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting 40 cases of norovirus, otherwise known as the stomach flu.

The Minnesota Department of Health on Monday said over 40 outbreaks of the stomach virus have been reported this month, which is almost twice the usual number. The illness, also called the stomach flu, causes vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping, and may also cause a low-grade fever or chills, headaches and muscle aches.

Minnesota is facing a significant increase in norovirus outbreaks this December. The Minnesota Department of Health has reported over 40 outbreaks, nearly doubling the usual number. Norovirus is highly contagious and the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the state.

Mary Murphy, the longest-serving woman and second-longest-serving member of the Minnesota House, died on Christmas Day at the age of 85, according to Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman.

Mary Murphy passed away earlier today,” Hortman posted on Facebook. “She was a wonderful state representative and human being. So many people will miss her, and remember her and her accomplishments fondly.

Mary Murphy, one of the longest serving members of the Minnesota House carrying out the role for 46 years, has died. She’s also being remembered as a former social studies teacher at Duluth Central High School where she worked from 1964 to 1997.

A great gray owl and a snowy owl are being treated by experts after being rescued by a northern Minnesota woman.

A Minnesota woman saved an owl stuck in a car grille. Screengrab from Annabell Whelan's Facebook page. A Minnesota zoo employee was at the right place at the right time twice in one day, and it led to her saving two owls.