A stomach virus, known as the ‘norovirus’ is presently spreading throughout the northeastern United States, according to statistics supplied by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the country’s public health organization.
According to CDC statistics, the three-week average of positive norovirus tests in the region has recently reached 13.9% and has been over 10% since mid-December 2023. According to the CDC, norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne disease in the United States. The sickness affects people of all ages and spreads “very easily and quickly”.
The CDC suggests vigorous handwashing with soap and water, sanitizing surfaces with bleach, and laundering garments in hot water to avoid norovirus spread. According to the CDC’s advice, individuals may develop norovirus numerous times during their lives due to the presence of different virus strains. “One type of norovirus may not protect you against other types,” according to the caution.
Norovirus causes around 19 to 21 million infections in the United States each year, with the largest prevalence often occurring between November and April. Norovirus causes around 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 fatalities each year, with the majority of those affected being older persons.
What is Norovirus and its symptoms?
Norovirus is a highly infectious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus may infect anyone and cause illness. Norovirus disease, sometimes known as “stomach flu” or “stomach bug,” is not the same as influenza, which is caused by an influenza virus. It is a widespread virus unrelated to the flu. Norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne diseases.
Norovirus causes inflammation in the stomach or intestines, which is known as acute gastroenteritis. According to CDC standards, norovirus symptoms appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure. While most people recover from norovirus infection within one to three days, they are still infectious for a few days following.
The norovirus infection can cause severe symptoms such as frequent vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration can be caused by such symptoms, especially in young children, the elderly, and people with underlying health issues. Dehydrated children may show indicators including decreased tear production, odd tiredness, or irritability.
How does Norovirus spreads?
Norovirus transmission can occur through the unintentional consumption of microscopic particles of stools or vomit from a virus-infected person. Direct contact with norovirus-infected people, such as caregiving, sharing food or utensils, or eating food cooked by them, can help spread the illness.
Another way for norovirus to spread is through the consumption of infected foods or drinks. Infection can also result from coming into contact with norovirus-contaminated surfaces or items and then putting unclean hands in one’s mouth.
