What is Norovirus: According to new data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of norovirus, which causes stomach problems, are increasing in the US. Norovirus is also called the winter vomiting bug. It is very contagious. 91 cases of norovirus were reported in the first week of December, while 69 cases were registered in the whole of November. The increasing number of norovirus cases has raised concerns among health officials, and they are emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Let us know all the important things related to this virus.

How did norovirus spread to the US?

According to a report published in the New York Times, a Los Angeles restaurant served raw oysters imported from British Columbia and Canada, which infected 80 people with norovirus. These oysters were sold in 14 US states before the recall was issued. In India, some cases of norovirus have been seen in Kerala.

What is norovirus

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu or the winter vomiting bug. It can cause inflammation of the stomach or intestines. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this virus accounts for 58 percent of all cases of foodborne infections.

How norovirus spreads

Norovirus infection occurs when an infected person comes into direct contact with another infected person. It spreads from one infected person to another through shared food or utensils. It also spreads through contaminated water and contaminated surfaces and can affect people of all ages. Shellfish, oysters and clams can also spread norovirus. This is why it is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the US.

Symptoms of Norovirus

Norovirus causes vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fever, body aches, and headache. Symptoms of infection usually appear 12 hours to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. In severe cases, persistent vomiting and diarrhea can also lead to dehydration.

How to Prevent from Norovirus - There are many types of any virus and a person can get infected by it many times. Some precautions have to be taken to avoid infection of norovirus. It is not destroyed by alcohol based hand sanitizer and can withstand heat up to 60 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it can survive only in food cooked by steaming, so cook food well on flame. Also wash hands with soap after using the toilet or changing diapers.

What is the treatment for norovirus

Norovirus illness usually resolves on its own within two to three days. Infection can cause nutrient deficiencies and dehydration, but most people can recover with plenty of rest and by staying hydrated. Norovirus infection can be dangerous for children, the very old, and people who are malnourished.