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Norovirus is Highly ContagiousIf you suddenly feel sick with "stomach flu," you may be infected with norovirus.
“Norovirus is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines,” said Michael Frank, MD, Medical College of Wisconsin infectious diseases physician. The term, “norovirus” is actually the name for a group of related viruses.
“Norovirus is sometimes called ‘stomach flu,” but it’s not related to the flu (influenza), which is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses,” Dr. Frank said. There are many different strains of norovirus.
“Anyone can become infected with these viruses,” Dr. Frank said. “There’s always a little bit of norovirus around, but right now we’re seeing more cases than usual. But this isn’t an outbreak like Milwaukee experienced many years ago with cryptosporidium. There’s nothing in the water. Norovirus is spread from person to person.”
SymptomsSymptoms of norovirus illness usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after contracting the virus, but they can appear sooner. The major symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. Some people may also have a low-grade fever and muscle aches. “The illness often begins suddenly, and the person may feel very sick,” Dr. Frank said. “But in most people, symptoms last for only one or two days.”
“Dehydration is the most serious health effect of norovirus infection and is a concern for people who may be unable to drink enough liquids to replace fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhea,” Dr. Frank said. “Some people can tolerate vomiting and diarrhea better than others.”
How the Virus SpreadsNorovirus is found in the stool or vomit of infected people. The virus is very contagious and can spread easily from person to person. People can become infected by eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with norovirus, touching objects contaminated with norovirus (and placing their hand in their mouth) and having direct contact with another person who is infected.
People infected with norovirus may be contagious from the time they begin feeling sick to several days after recovery.
TreatmentWhile there is no medication that works against norovirus, infected people may find relief by taking medications that treat vomiting. In addition, because vomiting and diarrhea cause fluid loss, people should drink plenty of fluids (water or juice) to prevent dehydration. The good news is that, in most cases, symptoms fade after two days.
PreventionA few steps can help prevent the spread of norovirus infection. If you have norovirus, wash your hands often, especially after using a toilet, changing diapers, before eating and before preparing food. When possible, avoid contact with others infected with norovirus.
Author: Marla Fraunfelder Source: Michael Frank, MD |
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