A norovirus infection can cause abrupt onset of severe vomiting and diarrhoea. The norovirus is extremely contagious. They frequently spread via contaminated surfaces, food, or water that was tainted during preparation. Additionally, close contact with an infected person can spread noroviruses.
Vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain usually start 12 to 48 hours after exposure. The typical duration of a norovirus infection is one to three days. Most people recover fully even in the absence of treatment. However, vomiting and diarrhoea can be extremely dehydrating for some people, particularly small children, the elderly, and those with other health issues. In these cases, medical attention is needed.
The most common settings for norovirus infections are crowded, enclosed spaces. Hospitals, retirement homes, daycare facilities, schools, and cruise ships are a few examples.
Symptoms
A norovirus infection may appear suddenly and cause the following signs and symptoms:
- emesis
- throwing up
- cramps or discomfort in the stomach
- loose or watery diarrhoea
- being unwell
- fever of low grade
- pain in the muscles
After being exposed to a norovirus for the first time, signs and symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours later and last 1 to 3 days. After recovering, the virus may still be excreted in your stool for a few weeks. If you have another medical condition, this shedding may continue for several weeks or months.
It’s possible for some norovirus infection sufferers to exhibit no symptoms at all. They can still infect others and spread the virus, though.
Causes
The norovirus is extremely contagious. This implies that the norovirus infection can propagate quickly among people. The virus is excreted in vomit and stools. From the moment you first experience symptoms of illness until a few days after you get better, you can spread the virus. For days or weeks, noroviruses can remain on surfaces and objects.
- a norovirus infection can occur from:
- consuming tainted food
- consuming tainted water
- putting your hand in your mouth after it has come into contact with something or a surface that is contaminated
- having a norovirus infection and being in close proximity to that person
- because noroviruses are resistant to many disinfectants and both extremes of temperature, they are challenging to eradicate.
Prevention
A norovirus infection can spread quickly. Noroviruses come in a variety of varieties. A norovirus infection can afflict anyone more than once.
To avoid contracting the norovirus:
- Before preparing food, eating, or drinking, especially after using the restroom or changing a nappy, give your hands a thorough 20-second wash with soap and water. Using soap and water is more effective than alcohol-based hand sanitizers when fighting noroviruses.
- Steer clear of tainted food and water, including food that might have been handled by an unwell person.
- Before consuming, wash fruits and vegetables.
- Cook seafood until it’s done.
- Surfaces that may have been contaminated should be cleaned. Put on gloves and use a disinfectant that works against noroviruses or a solution of chlorine bleach.
- When travelling, exercise caution. Consider eating only prepared food, drinking only hot or fizzy beverages, and staying away from street vendors’ food if you’re visiting regions where there is a high risk of contracting the norovirus.
To stop the spread of a norovirus infection while you’re sick and for two to three days after your symptoms go away:
- Steer clear of people as much as you can.
- Use soap and water to give your hands a thorough wash.
- Remain at home after work. Kids shouldn’t go to creche or school; they should stay home.
- Steer clear of food and objects intended for use by others. Use a disinfectant that is effective against noroviruses to clean contaminated surfaces.
