Norovirus, commonly referred to as food poisoning or a stomach bug, is making the rounds in the Northeast region of the United States, especially in South Jersey.
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) among people of all ages in the United States. It is highly contagious; easily transmitted from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The infection comes with unpleasant symptoms.
CDC data reveals that the Northeast region of the United States presently exhibits the highest positivity rate for Norovirus.
As per CDC statistics, the three-week average for positive Norovirus tests in the Northeast region exceeds 15%. By contrast, the Southern region reports approximately 10% positive Norovirus tests, while the Midwest and Western regions indicate rates of 9% and 12%, respectively.
Earlier this month, Irving Primary School, situated in Highland Park, New Jersey, had to shut down due to an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness. Following this, the school underwent thorough sanitation procedures before resuming classes.
Dr. Robyn F. Chatman, a delegate in the AMA House of Delegates for the Ohio State Medical Association, said:
“Norovirus really can affect anybody. However, it’s the folks at the extreme ends of the age spectrum who are at greatest risk. Children between 6 months and 18 months are a high-risk group. And that’s daycare age, so they are not only at higher risk, but that’s the place where it’s spread so easily.”
Seniors, living in a community setting like a nursing home, and pregnant women are also at a greater risk of transmission.
Are Norovirus outbreaks common?
According to the CDC, Norovirus are most common in the late fall, winter and early spring (from November to April). However, it can technically occur any time of the year.
The virus is the leading cause of gastroenteritis in the US. Here’s how prevalent it is:
Each year in the US, norovirus causes:
19-21 million cases of vomiting and diarrhea
About 109,000 hospitalizations
Nearly 2.3 million outpatient visits
Over 450,000 emergency department visits, primarily in young children
Around 900 deaths, mainly among adults aged 65 and older.
Approximately 1 in every 15 people in the US experiences norovirus illness annually. By age 5, about 1 out of every 40 children will visit an emergency room, and 1 out of 160 children will be hospitalized due to norovirus.
Risk Zone
Norovirus outbreaks occur in various settings, including healthcare facilities, restaurants, catered events, schools, and childcare centers. Cruise ships contribute to a small percentage (1%) of reported norovirus outbreaks overall
How Norovirus spreads?
Noroviruses are highly contagious, making it easy for the infection to pass from person to person. The virus is found in both stool and vomit, and you can transmit it to others from the moment you start showing symptoms until a few days after you recover. Additionally, noroviruses can linger on surfaces and objects for days or even weeks.
Being in a close contact with someone infected by norovirus, such as by caring for them, sharing food or eating utensils with them, or eating food handled by them.
Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus.
Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then putting your unwashed fingers in your mouth.
Noroviruses are resilient and can withstand both hot and cold temperatures. They can also withstand many disinfectants, making them challenging to eradicate.
What are the symptoms of Norovirus infection?
Norovirus causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines, called acute gastroenteritis. Signs and symptoms of Norovirus infection typically emerge within 12 to 48 hours post-exposure. These symptoms typically last approximately 1 to 3 days.
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach pain or cramps
Watery or loose diarrhea
Feeling ill
Low-grade fever
Muscle pain
Most individuals recover fully without medical intervention. However, severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea may necessitate medical attention, particularly for vulnerable groups like young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.
Even after you start feeling better from norovirus, the virus can still be present in your stool for weeks. If you have other health problems, this shedding might last even longer, possibly for months.
It’s important to note that some people with norovirus might not show any signs of being sick, but they can still pass the virus to others. This means even if someone seems fine, they could still spread the illness to those around them. So, it’s crucial to take precautions to prevent the spread of norovirus, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces like hospitals, schools, and cruise ships.
How can we prevent Norovirus?
Norovirus infection spreads easily and can occur repeatedly due to the various strains of the virus. Mayo Clinic suggested following these instructions to lower the risk of norovirus infection:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before handling food or drinks. Hand sanitizers may not be as effective against norovirus.
Steer clear of contaminated food and water, including items possibly prepared by someone who was ill. Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, and cook seafood thoroughly.
Disinfect surfaces that may have been contaminated, using gloves and a chlorine bleach solution or a suitable disinfectant for noroviruses.
Be cautious while traveling, particularly in areas prone to norovirus outbreaks. Opt for cooked foods, hot or carbonated beverages, and avoid street vendor offerings.
An infographic image for the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Norovirus infection. Image Source: media.licdn
To prevent spreading norovirus during and after illness:
Minimize contact with others and maintain good hand hygiene.
Stay home from work or school until at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms cease.
Refrain from handling food or items used by others, and disinfect surfaces with appropriate cleansers.
Dispose of vomit and stool carefully, using disposable gloves and towels, and washing contaminated clothing and linens promptly.
Avoid travel until at least 2 to 3 days after symptoms disappear.
How can we treat the virus?
According to the CDC, there is no specific medication to treat people with norovirus illness. The center suggests the infected people to drink ample amount of liquids to prevent dehydration caused by frequent vomiting and diarrhea.
Remember: Antibiotics won’t work against Norovirus because they target bacteria, not viruses.
