Norovirus is commonly referred to as the “winter vomiting bug”. The virus has just been discovered in Kerala and is highly contagious.
According to health department authorities, this norovirus infection was discovered after samples were analyzed at a government lab. The norovirus causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever-like symptoms in adults as well as infants.
Keep reading article to get norovirus facts in clear manner.
What is Norovirus?
The norovirus causes gastroenteritis, which is a severe stomach illness. It is sometimes called the “stomach flu”, although it is not caused by influenza. The norovirus is very contagious and can easily spread from person to person.
Norovirus is found in the stools and vomit of infected individuals. Similarly, it can be found on contaminated surfaces such as door handles or countertops.
Norovirus can be spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their mouths or eating contaminated foods.
Norovirus Symptoms
Norovirus is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
Norovirus symptoms in adults include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Pain in the body
There is an inflammation of the stomach or intestines caused by norovirus. The condition is known as acute gastroenteritis.
Norovirus symptoms usually appear between 12 and 48 hours after exposure. It usually takes one to three days for a person with norovirus illness to recover.
If you have norovirus illness, you may feel extremely ill and have diarrhea or vomiting several times a day. It can cause dehydration, especially in children, the elderly, and sick individuals.
The following are symptoms of dehydration:
- Decreased urination
- Dry mouth and throat
- Stand-up dizziness
Dehydrated children are more likely to appear sleepy, fussy, and cry with few or no tears.
Norovirus Treatment
There is no specific cure or antiviral drug that works against norovirus. There is a focus on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration during treatment.
In most cases, norovirus can be treated within 1 to 3 days.
Dehydration can be prevented with plenty of fluid intake, especially clear liquids like water and broth. The pain and fever can also be relieved by taking over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
It may be necessary to be hospitalized for severe vomiting or diarrhea in order to receive fluids through an IV. Serious norovirus infections can cause dehydration, which is dangerous.
The norovirus is highly contagious and may be passed from person to person easily.
It is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the bathroom or coming in contact with someone who is ill to prevent the spread of the virus.
Ensure that surfaces that might be contaminated with the virus are cleaned, such as doorknobs, countertops, and toilets.
Norovirus Treatment at Home
Maintain a healthy fluid intake
Fluids are essential since you lose vital bodily fluids through sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea. Try taking small sips at regular intervals or chewing ice chips if you have trouble keeping liquids down. Fluids to drink include:
- Clear liquids, such as broth and water
- Pedialyte is an over-the-counter preparation that is suitable for all ages.
- Drinks that can replenish electrolytes, usually for older children and adults.
- Ginger and peppermint teas can help calm your stomach and reduce nausea (avoid highly caffeinated teas)
Prevention of Norovirus
Contagious noroviruses spread easily among individuals. Here are some tips on preventing norovirus spread:
- Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom or changing diapers.
- Do not touch your face, especially your eyes, mouth, and nose.
- Disinfect surfaces that may have been contaminated with norovirus.
- You should stay at home if you are sick.
- If you are sick, do not prepare food for others.
Conclusion
Noroviruses cause severe gastrointestinal disorders. The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Noroviruses are highly contagious and can be spread by close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
The norovirus infection has no specific treatment, and most people recover without the need for medical care. However, some people can become dehydrated after vomiting and diarrhea leading to hospitalization. The best way to prevent norovirus infection is to wash hands thoroughly and stay away from close contact with people who are sick.