What is norovirus and how to stay safe?
Norovirus is a contagious virus that can lead to inflammation of the stomach or intestines. It usually leads to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. It is also called the ‘stomach flu’ or ‘stomach bug’ but is not related to the flu.
Following exposure, a person will usually develop symptoms within 12-48 hours. Most people will get better within 1-3 days.
Cases rise in US and UK
Data from UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows a sharp increase in reports of confirmed cases of norovirus. Data from laboratory reports shows reports of the virus are 66% higher than the average at this time of year. Further, the biggest increase in laboratory confirmed norovirus was seen in people aged 65 years and over.
Cases are also rising in the US. As of February 4, 17 percent of norovirus tests in the US were coming back positive, which is more than at any point last season.
Who can get infected?
Anyone can get infected and sick with norovirus. You can get infected with norovirus from having direct contact with an infected person and it can also spread from consuming contaminated food or water. Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth can also lead to the infection.
Read more: 6 natural ways to relieve constipation
Symptoms of norovirus
The most common symptoms of norovirus are:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Stomach Pain
How to prevent norovirus
By following simple hygiene measures, you can prevent getting infected from norovirus.
Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You should wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers. Make sure you clean your hands before eating, preparing, or handling food. Also follow this before giving yourself or someone else medicine.
According to the US CDC, hand sanitizer does not work well against norovirus. So, handwashing should always be preferred. Further, ensure cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in your house and wash laundry thoroughly.
Read more: Past COVID infection protected against reinfections and severe diseases, better than two-dose m-RNA vaccine: Lancet study
Norovirus in India
On January 24, the Kerala Health Department confirmed two cases of the gastrointestinal infection norovirus in class 1 students in Ernakulam district. The samples were tested after 62 people developed diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, a high temperature, headache, and body aches.