Norovirus Cases Rising: What You Need to Know About the Stomach Bug Surge – Latest Health News. Health officials are proving an outbreak of the norovirus which is a highly contagious virus causing sudden stomach illness which results in vomiting and diarrhea. This is being experienced during the winter months and it is during this period of the year that one can easily be close to each other and in a crowded place and therefore spreading the virus is very easy.
Norovirus is considered as one of the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis in the world that can potentially impact millions of individuals per annum.
Table of Contents
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a very infectious virus and leads to swelling of intestines and stomach. It is quickly transmitted in these institutions; schools, hospitals, hostels, nursing houses, and cruise ships.
Norovirus is among the highly prevalent causes of food born diseases in the world according to the world health organization.
Why Are Norovirus Cases Rising Now? Norovirus Cases Rising: What You Need to Know About the Stomach Bug Surge
According to the public health specialists, the cases of norovirus tend to increase because of:
- Seasonal winter conditions
- More indoor convocations.
- Communal surfaces and lack of ventilation.
- Inadequate hand hygiene
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the highest point of norovirus outbreaks is spanned between November and April.
Symptoms of Norovirus Infection
The symptoms normally start 12-48 hours after exposure and they may include:
- Sudden vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Mild fever
- Headache and body weakness
The majority of the population heals in several days, however, dehydration may be life threatening to children, elderly and those with chronic diseases.
How Contagious Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is highly transmissible. There are very few virus particles required to result in infection.
It spreads through:
- In direct touch with an ill individual.
- Contaminated food or water
- Handling dirty materials and then handling the mouth.
The medical professionals advise that even after the symptoms have disappeared, an infected person may transmit the virus.
How Long Does Norovirus Last?
In most cases:
- Symptoms last 1 to 3 days
- Weakness may persist longer
- They do not need any particular antiviral treatment.
Vomiting or diarrhea should not persist beyond three days or there must be symptoms of dehydration hence medical care is recommended.
How to Prevent Norovirus Infection
To authorities of health it is suggested:
- Washing hands using soap and water.
- Washing surfaces using disinfectants containing chlorine.
- Not preparing the foods when one is ill.
- Remaining at home following the end of the symptoms of 48 hours.
Hand sanitizers that are based on alcohol have less effect with norovirus.(WHO)
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- Severe dehydration is developed.
- Symptoms worsen or persist
- It affects infants, old people or pregnant women.
- The blood is either in vomit or stool.
Why This Health News Matters
The epidemics of norovirus can disrupt the education system, workplace, and healthcare services. The early awareness and right hygienic practices are the most ideal ways of controlling the spread and protecting those at risk.
Hello everyone, I am Md Habibullah Sheikh a registered Pharmacist in India with 6 years of experience in Clinical, Community, and corporate pharmacy.
I have worked for HLFPPT, Gauripur Hospital, Reliance Retail Pharma (Netmeds) and Zota Health Care as a Senior Pharmacist.
Currently I am running a blog site called - healtheasyfitness.com and Youtube channel called Pharmacist - Habibul
We, In Health Easy Fitness, share trustable health education, tips & awareness to help people find the best health choice.
Always talk to a doctor before taking any kind of Health issue Decision.
