Norovirus symptoms, transmission, prevention, treatment

Norovirus is a contagious disease which is the most prevalent cause of acute gastroenteritis in the globe, producing an estimated 685 million cases yearly according to the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Norovirus is a bug which infects people of all ages, and is identical to the diarrhoea causing Rotavirus. The outbreaks of the disease are frequent on cruise vessels as well as in nursing homes, dormitories, and other closed environments.

Viral Infection – Norovirus

Norovirus Symptoms

The sudden onset of vomiting, severe diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach cramps can be among the most common symptoms. A headache, fever and body pains can be possible side effects for certain people. These symptoms generally manifest between 12 to 48 hours following the onset of a Norovirus infection, and last for a period of one to three days.

Norovirus transmission

Norovirus, just like other viruses, requires an environment to live for a long time. It is extremely contagious and can be transmitted from one person to another. Contact with an infected person or contact with a contaminated surface, and the consumption of contaminated water or food are the ways in which it could be transmitted. The most common way of transmission is through oral-faecal route. Since the virus is comprised of multiple strains, it is possible to get infected several times. Norovirus is resistant to range of disinfectants and is resistant to temperatures up to 60 C. Heating food items or chlorinating water will not be enough to get rid of the virus. Hand sanitizers of all kinds are also not effective against disease.

Prevention and Treatment

Although the virus isn’t recognized as a deadly virus there is no treatment that can treat it. The only way is to give symptomatic treatment with diarrhoea and vomiting medications . In order to replenish fluid lost through diarrhoea and vomiting, those who suffer from this disease need to drink plenty of water. This can help in preventing dehydration. Here are some steps to prevent spreading of the disease:

• Cleanse your hands using detergent and hot water prior to eating and following use of the restroom.
• Keep your home clean if you are suffering from any signs
• Alcohol in sanitiser doesn’t kill norovirus.
• Don’t cook for more than 48 hours if sick

News on Norovirus in Kerala

Recent reports indicate that 13 people were sickened by Norovirus from the state of Kerala’s Wayanad district. The Norovirus outbreak that occurred recently in Wayanad’s College of Veterinary Sciences generated fears of a brand new disease spreading throughout the state. This Wayanad incident was not the first outbreak of norovirus in Kerala as per new information. The first outbreak of norovirus in Kerala was reported in Alappuzha in the month of June this year. The norovirus was detected in 950 instances, perhaps more acute diarrhoeal infections that were reported in Alappuzha municipality and the nearby panchayats.

After the outbreak the state government has urged people to be cautious and take steps to stop spreading the disease. This is all you must know about the illness.