Norovirus

Norovirus Latest News

Cases of norovirus, commonly known as the “winter vomiting disease,” have been rising in the United States in recent weeks.

About Norovirus

• It is a common and highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, a condition known as gastroenteritis.
• It is also sometimes referred to as the ‘stomach flu’ or the ‘winter vomiting bug’.
• Norovirus outbreaks usually happen seasonally in colder months. 
• People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads very easily and quickly.
• These viruses are responsible for about 90% of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks and close to 50% of cases across the world.
• You can get norovirus illness many times in your life because there are many different types of noroviruses.
• Transmission: 
  • You can get norovirus from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces.
  • Norovirus infection occurs most frequently in closed and crowded environments. 
  • People infected with norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least 3 days after recovery. 
• Symptoms:
  • Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and tiredness.
  • In extreme cases, loss of fluids could lead to dehydration.
• Treatment:
  • Most people recover completely without treatment. 
  • No vaccines are currently available to prevent norovirus. Treatment for the infection focuses on relieving your symptoms.
  • It is important to maintain hydration in the acute phase.
  • In extreme cases, patients have to be administered rehydration fluids intravenously.

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What is the Difference Between Norovirus and the Stomach Flu?

• Norovirus causes gastroenteritis, which some people may call the “stomach flu.” 
• The influenza virus causes respiratory flu, not gastroenteritis.

Source: NDT