Understanding Norovirus and Its Signs and Symptoms
Understanding Norovirus and Its Signs and Symptoms
Norovirus instances are escalating in the U.S., with 455 outbreaks recorded since September's beginning. Over 90 of these occurred during the initial week of December – one of the highest rates noted in any week since statistics have been recorded in 2012.
The actual number of outbreaks is likely to surpass this figure, as only fourteen states contribute to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's "NoroSTAT" reporting system.
Elevating infection rates are also signified by an escalating rate of positive norovirus test results, which the CDC employs to track the disease's dissemination across the nation. These figures saw a steep increase from 10.6% during the week ending November 16 to 22.02% during the week ending December 21. High outbreak numbers have also been observed in foreign nations, such as the U.K.
Approximately 2,500 outbreaks are usually reported each year in the U.S., with the majority of cases emerging between November and March, and peaking in February. Specialists propose that the disease might be establishing itself earlier this year due to increased socialization compared to previous periods.
What Is Norovirus?
Famously known as "stomach flu," "stomach bug," and the "winter vomiting bug," norovirus is a highly transmissible seasonal ailment that induces gastrointestinal symptoms. In fact, it incites more vomiting and diarrhea, along with foodborne illnesses than any other disease in the country.
Norovirus spreads when microscopic particles of infected feces enter the body through the mouth. It's typically spread through direct contact with an infected person, touching a contaminated surface (and then the mouth), or by consuming infected food or drinks.
Within the body, norovirus journeys to the gut, where it binds to sugars called "oligosaccharides" that line the small intestine. Once there, it may inflame the intestines or the stomach, resulting in intense gastrointestinal disease.
What Are Norovirus'symptoms?
Norovirus frequently induces nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may also provoke certain flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, fever, and overall body aches. Despite being commonly referred to as "stomach flu," it's not caused by the influenza virus.
Vomiting and diarrhea can promptly induce dehydration, necessitating an attempt to consume water, even if it's challenging to keep it down. Consuming small, frequent sips of water can aid in maintaining hydration.
Symptoms manifest relatively swiftly after exposure to norovirus – typically within approximately 12 to 48 hours, as per the CDC. They usually cease between one to three days later. However, an individual can still disseminate the disease through their feces for several days after they appear to recover.
How Can I Prevent Norovirus?
The most effective method to prevent norovirus is through regular, thorough hand-washing – especially after using the restroom, changing a baby, or caring for a sick individual, and before eating. It's also prudent to avoid touching your face, as this can bring the virus closer to your mouth.
Keep high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and countertops clean, and launder clothes and sheets suspected of contamination at a high temperature to eliminate any lingering virus.
Additionally, washing fruits and vegetables before consumption and ensuring that shellfish is thoroughly cooked is essential. The CDC advises avoiding raw shellfish like oysters altogether, as it can result in illness and even death.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently tracking a surge in Norovirus outbreaks, with 455 reported since September. This number is expected to increase, as only 14 states contribute to the CDC's "NoroSTAT" reporting system. Frequent norovirus symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, fever, and overall body aches. These symptoms typically manifest within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, as per the CDC, and can lead to dehydration. To prevent norovirus, practices such as regular hand-washing, avoiding high-touch surfaces, and washing fruits and vegetables before consumption are recommended. The CDC also advises against consuming raw shellfish, as it can contribute to norovirus-related illness or death. Additionally, the increase in norovirus cases could be attributed to earlier establishment of the disease due to increased socialization during the winter season.