How to prevent norovirus infection?

Norovirus is responsible for many foodborne illnesses. — National Infectious Disease Foundation

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus causing inflammation of the stomach which leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps. The infection is contagious and spreads easily from person to person through contaminated water and food and by touching surfaces that have been soiled by its traces. In babies, the infection can be particularly difficult to fight and stressful.

THE headache that follows infection is one of the most well-known symptoms, although it is not always present.

Norovirus is responsible for many foodborne illnesses and is a common cause of outbreaks in schools, cruise ships, nursing homes and other crowded environments.

Symptoms

Symptoms of norovirus in adults can usually develop within 12 to 48 hours of exposure to the virus and can last for one to three days.

The most common symptoms are sudden onset of diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and fever. In some cases, people may also experience headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. Needless to say, norovirus infection can be serious in people with weakened immune systems, young children and older adults, leading to dehydration and other complications. Norovirus headache is a well-known symptom.

How do you get norovirus?

What is norovirus caused by? The infection spreads easily from person to person, like most contagious viruses, especially in crowded environments such as schools, nursing homes, hospitals and cruise ships.

It can also be transmitted through contaminated food or water or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Norovirus is highly contagious and even a small amount of virus can lead to infection. It can survive on surfaces for a long time and is resistant to many common disinfectants, making it difficult to control.

Can norovirus be killed with hand sanitizer?

The best way to prevent norovirus infection is to practice good hygiene and sanitation. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the bathroom or changing diapers.

Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers only when soap and water are not available. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of awareness has been made around handwashing techniques that can be helpful when caring for any other virus.

Avoid sharing food, drink, utensils or personal items with other people. Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with norovirus, including countertops, doorknobs, and bathroom fixtures.

Is there a norovirus vaccine?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no available vaccine against norovirus. However, several experimental vaccines are in development and clinical trials are underway.

These vaccines work by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that can fight the norovirus infection.

The treatment for norovirus, like the vaccine, is not yet known to us. However, the CDC recommends staying hydrated to resolve the condition within days.

However, it is important to always consult a healthcare professional before making any medical decisions and seek medical attention as soon as you detect symptoms.

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