Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastric vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach discomfort. However, Norovirus is not related to the influenza virus and is frequently referred to as the stomach flu.
The stomach flu is another term for Norovirus. Nevertheless, it has nothing to do with the flu. A group of viruses collectively known as Noroviruses. There are numerous varieties, and they are both widespread and contagious.
Being infected is typically just a hassle, and you can feel under the weather for a few days. However, some infections can be fatal or cause severe dehydration. For infants, elderly people, those with impaired immune systems, and pregnant women in particular, it can be harmful. Anyone who is at high risk or has persistent symptoms should consult a physician.
Norovirus Spreading Methods
Norovirus is the most frequent factor behind contaminated food in the nation. Food contamination can occur when fruits and vegetables are grown or cleaned in contaminated water. If they are picked from contaminated water, oysters also carry a risk of contracting the norovirus. In December, a Norovirus outbreak spanning many states and affecting over 300 people was linked to raw oysters from Texas.
According to national monitoring data, the number of laboratory reports of the virus is 66% greater now than it is typically at this time of year. The population of people 65 years of age and older has experienced the greatest increase in Norovirus cases that have been confirmed in labs. In spite of the fact that a large number of cases in this age range are expected at this time of year, these levels haven’t been observed in over ten years.
Since the Norovirus is so infectious, it can be spread quickly by coming into contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. Maintaining good hand hygiene is among the best strategies to stop the spread of the Norovirus. The majority of people recover completely in 2 to 3 days, but it’s crucial to drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially for the very young, old, or persons with compromised immune systems who are more vulnerable.
Symptoms Of Norovirus
- Having less frequent urination that is dark in hue.
- Experiencing dry mouth.
- Feeling faint or lightheaded.
- A migraine.
What Causes Norovirus
According to the CDC, norovirus typically spreads when you unintentionally swallow small bits of vomit or excrement from an infected person. This typically occurs in one of the following ways:
- Basically, consuming food cooked by an infected person, squeezing doorknobs touched by an infected person, and caring for an infected person are ways to contract Norovirus.
- You consume food or drink that has had vomit or faeces from an infected individual on it after they have touched it with their bare hands.
- You put your fingers in your mouth after touching objects or surfaces that have been exposed to norovirus particles.
- You have direct interaction with a Norovirus carrier.
How To Cure Norovirus
This norovirus does not have such a treatment but by taking care and using precautions, it can be cured.
- Antibiotics and other medications won’t be able to treat this virus because they don’t work to combat bacteria and viruses.
- Frequently washing your hands in soap and water.
- Sanitising food before eating (fruits and vegetables).
- Cooking your food to the proper temperature or thoroughly (particularly if it contains seafood or shellfish).
- Preventing contact with those who are infected with the norovirus.
- Cleaning and sanitising things and surfaces that are often touched.
- Washing your clothing in-depth, especially if it’s dirty.
- The killing power of hand sanitizers is inferior to that of soap and warm water when it comes to eliminating Norovirus particles.
Other Preventative Measures For Norovirus
- Consuming a lot of liquids, particularly those that contain electrolytes.
- Getting plenty of sleep.
- Eating bland, mushy food.
- Norovirus does not have a specific treatment; instead, it is crucial to stay hydrated.
Concluding Thoughts
The Norovirus is spreading rapidly, and if the right steps are not taken, it might develop into a fatal illness. It does not yet have a therapy, unlike the Covid-19 or other influenza. Although outbreak data is not yet available, test positive has risen above its high from the previous year. At the conclusion of the previous week, the average percentage of Norovirus test results that were positive exceeded 15%.
