Norovirus outbreak: what is it? You should know the symptoms and prevention tips

Norovirus outbreak: An outbreak of norovirus has been detected in some areas of the United States. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 91 cases of norovirus in the week beginning December 5. This was seen as a significant increase in the number of cases after 69 cases of norovirus were reported in the last week. November. Read also | What is norovirus? Symptoms to watch for during an outbreak in the US

What is norovirus?

According to the official website of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is a contagious virus that causes vomiting with diarrhea. Norovirus, also called stomach flu or stomach flu, causes inflammation in the intestines or stomach, also known as acute gastroenteritis.

Types of norovirus:

Most people with norovirus get better within 1-3 days of getting sick, but they can still carry the virus and spread it. There are many types of norovirus, and thus this explains why people can get norovirus several times in their lifetime. One type of norovirus infection may not protect against another type. Read also | Norovirus outbreak reported in the US: What you need to know about transmission and symptoms

Norovirus: Warning Signs and Symptoms

Within 12 to 48 hours, a person exposed to norovirus may develop symptoms. Early warning signs of norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, fever, headache, and body aches.

According to the CDC’s official website, norovirus can cause severe dehydration. “Decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, dizziness upon standing up, crying with little or no tears, and unusual drowsiness or restlessness are some of the signs of severe dehydration.

Norovirus: Prevention Tips

Norovirus can be spread by direct contact with a person infected with the virus, by eating food or liquid contaminated with the virus, or by touching surfaces that have the virus on them. The CDC shared a few precautions to keep in mind to stay safe:

• Wash your hands properly before eating or drinking.
• When preparing shellfish, fruits and vegetables, they should be washed thoroughly.
• Contaminated surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
• Linen should be washed in hot water.
• If you are infected with norovirus, it is recommended to stay at home for two days, even after symptoms disappear. Read also | Stomach cramps to vomiting, the main signs and symptoms of norovirus you should know

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.