Norovirus: The Winter Woes of the Stomach Bug
Winter is coming, and with it comes the dreaded norovirus, also known as the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug." This highly contagious virus can cause vomiting and diarrhea, making it a miserable experience for anyone who gets it.
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What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a virus that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, known as gastroenteritis. It is highly contagious and can spread easily through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms of norovirus typically appear within 12 to 48 hours of exposure and can last for 1 to 3 days. Common symptoms include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach cramps
Low-grade fever
Headache
Body aches
Who is Most at Risk of Norovirus?
Anyone can get norovirus, but young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
How to Prevent Norovirus
There is no vaccine for norovirus, but there are steps you can take to prevent it:
Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Do not share food or drinks with people who are sick.
Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated.
Cook food thoroughly, especially shellfish.
What to do if you Get Norovirus
If you get norovirus, the best thing to do is to stay hydrated and rest. You can also take over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. If you have severe symptoms, you may need to be hospitalized.
Norovirus in the US
Norovirus is a major cause of foodborne illness in the United States. It is estimated that norovirus causes about 900 deaths each year in the US.
Conclusion
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. While there is no cure for norovirus, there are steps you can take to prevent it. If you get norovirus, the best thing to do is to stay hydrated and rest.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/
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