Norovirus

In News

Recently, Norovirus cases have been detected in Kerala.

About Virus 

• The virus has been circulating among humans for over 50 years and is thought to be one of the primary causes of gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines). 
• The virus is estimated to kill 200,000 persons globally every year, with most deaths occurring among those below the age of five years and those over the age of 65 years.
• The virus is capable of surviving low temperatures, and outbreaks tend to be more common during the winter and in colder countries hence, it is sometimes referred to as “winter vomiting disease”. 

Spread: Norovirus is a very contagious virus and can spread through:

• Having direct contact with an infected person,
• Consuming contaminated food or water,
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth.

Symptoms

• Diarrhea,Vomiting,Nausea,Stomach pain

Trends

• Outbreaks are common and they can happen anytime, but they occur most often from November to April.

Severity of Virus

• Most people get better within one to two days.
• The virus makes people get severely dehydrated which can be serious and even fatal in the very young, older adults, and people with other health problems.

Prevention

• Wash hands often, Rinse fruits and vegetables, Cook shellfish thoroughly, Stay home when sick and for two days after symptoms stop, Avoid preparing food for others when sick and for two days after symptoms stop.

Treatment

• There is no real treatment. The best advice is to drink a lot of fluids. If one keep rehydrating, it will get better in 48 to 72 hours.

IE