Health departments are warning people to take precautions against norovirus after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a surge in cases in some parts of the US. Recent figures show that 91 outbreaks of the virus were reported during the week of December 5, an increase of 22 from the previous week.
The CDC has been tracking norovirus numbers since 2012, giving us a good indicator of the virus’s usual patterns. Also known as the “winter vomiting bug”, numbers always tend to be greater at this time of year. Data from 2012 to 2020 show a maximum of 65 reported outbreaks in the week of December 5, so this year’s figures do seem to be on the higher end.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is also commonly known as the “stomach flu”, although this is a misnomer as it’s not related to influenza viruses. It is, however, a very unpleasant bug in its own right, causing sudden, and sometimes severe, diarrhea and vomiting. Some people may also experience other symptoms like a fever and body aches.
The one point in its favor is that the sickness from norovirus tends to run its course fairly quickly – most people get better in one to three days with no long-term complications. However, you can remain infectious to others for two weeks or more. Just a few virus particles are all you need to become infected, with symptoms typically appearing 12-48 hours after exposure.
There are 10 broad genetic groups of noroviruses. It’s been estimated that most people will contract the infection five times during their lifetime.
How to stop the spread of norovirus
After more than twice the usual number of outbreaks were reported to the Minnesota Department of Health by December 23 this year, the state authorities issued guidance for stopping the spread of norovirus.
- Handwashing with soap and water is absolutely key. Most hand sanitizers don’t kill norovirus, so you shouldn’t rely on these alone. Instead, you should thoroughly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before preparing or eating food, after using the bathroom, and after changing diapers.
- If you have been sick with vomiting or diarrhea, do not prepare food for others until three days after your symptoms have resolved. The AP reports that 58 percent of annual foodborne infections in the US are caused by the virus.
- Clean any surfaces that may be contaminated with a bleach-based solution – think bathrooms, kitchen worktops, but also faucets, door handles, and other high-traffic areas that could be overlooked.
Oysters and other bivalves like mussels are a known risk for foodborne norovirus. All shellfish should be thoroughly cooked before consumption to minimize the risk. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued an advisory about certain oysters harvested in particular growing areas in British Columbia, after Taylor Shellfish Canda ULC recalled some products due to norovirus contamination.
What to do if you catch norovirus
There are an estimated 2,500 outbreaks of norovirus in the US each year, most of which fall between November and April. Settings where lots of people are bunched in together, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and cruise ships, are often hit. According to the AP, an average of 900 deaths are attributed to the virus each year, mostly in older adults.
While the majority of people who contract norovirus will recover completely, some are more vulnerable to complications, like the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. There are no specific medications, so treatment relies on managing the symptoms until they pass.
Dehydration is the main concern – the fluid lost from vomiting and diarrhea should be replaced by regularly sipping on water or other drinks (just avoid caffeine and alcohol). Rehydration powders you can get from your pharmacy may help as well.
If you suspect that you or someone you are caring for may be severely dehydrated, you should seek medical attention. Symptoms include fatigue and dizziness; children may be sleepy or fussier than usual and may cry with few or no tears.
While sick with norovirus you should stay home. Kids should be kept away from school, and adults away from the workplace and from places like care homes where there are vulnerable people, for at least 48 hours once symptoms have cleared.
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Source Link: Norovirus Is On The Increase In Parts Of The US – Here’s What To Know
