WEB DESK: There is a significant surge in cases of norovirus, also known as ‘ stomach flu’ or ‘ stomach bug,’ in the United States (US). It is a leading cause of diarrhoea and vomiting worldwide.
According to the latest reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of outbreaks spiked from 69 in the last week of November to 91 in the first week of December. Previously, the highest number of outbreaks during a one-week period in the same time frame was 65 in 2019.
According to Aljazeera, norovirus outbreaks are most prevalent between November and April, a period often referred to as the “norovirus season.”
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus, is a highly contagious viral disease that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, called gastroenteritis.
Norovirus is a small RNA virus that causes infections in its hosts, including humans and animals such as pigs, cows, rabbits, and dogs.
Norovirus outbreak
According to Al Jazeera, in December, Minnesota’s Department of Health reported 40 cases of norovirus, double the usual number for the month.
A CDC scientist noted that while norovirus cases generally increase in the US during this season, a newer strain, GII.17, has emerged as the dominant type this year.
He further explained that lower population immunity to GII.17, compared to the previously prevalent strain, GII.4 Sydney, might have caused the earlier spike in cases this December, instead of the typical rise in January.
What are the symptoms of Norovirus?
The most common symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, while other symptoms may include fever and body aches.
Due to the diarrhea and vomiting associated with norovirus, a person may experience dehydration due to fluid loss. The symptoms of dehydration include decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy.
How Norovirus spreads?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can be transmitted in several ways. It can be spread through direct contact with surfaces contaminated with norovirus or by coming into direct contact with a person already infected, and then touching your mouth, eyes, or nose.
It can also spread by consuming contaminated food or water. The virus can also be transmitted if you share utensils or food with an infected person.
Norovirus is remarkably resilient, as it can remain on both hard and soft surfaces – such as sheets – and in various environments for up to two weeks, making it particularly challenging to contain.
Unlike COVID-19, norovirus is not airborne, but it can become aerosolized if an infected person vomits, releasing small droplets containing the virus into the air. When inhaled, these droplets can lead to infection.
How to treat norovirus?
There is no specific treatment for norovirus. However, staying hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration. Drink water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear fluids, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Some doctors may also prescribe over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications.
How to prevent norovirus infections?
Norovirus is a contagious virus, but you can protect yourself by taking some precautionary measures.
According to the CDC, you should wash your hands with soap frequently. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective against norovirus. You should also consume shellfish more often. Use disinfectants to clean contaminated surfaces and try to wash laundry in hot water. It is very important to stay hydrated, as the person suffering from vomiting and diarrhea is at risk of dehydration. Additionally, stay home for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop.
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