Last December, news broke about more than 90 cases of norovirus in the U.S., with a big outbreak in Los Angeles. Around the same time, smaller cases were reported in Kerala, India. It’s amazing how fast this virus can spread, affecting people across the globe.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 685 million people get norovirus annually, including 200 million children under five. In the U.S., the CDC says it causes 58% of all foodborne illnesses.
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes stomach problems. It’s often called the “winter vomiting bug” because it spreads a lot during the colder months. You can catch it from:
- Eating contaminated food or drinking unsafe water
- Touching infected surfaces
- Being in close contact with someone who has it
Places like schools, cruise ships, nursing homes, and dormitories are hotspots for norovirus outbreaks because lots of people are in close quarters.
Symptoms of Norovirus
If you catch norovirus, symptoms usually show up 1-2 days later. The most common signs are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
You might also get a fever, headaches, or body aches. For some people, especially young kids, older adults, or those already weak, dehydration can be a big problem.
How to Protect Yourself
The good news is, that you can take steps to avoid norovirus:
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before eating. Hand sanitizers don’t work as well against this virus.
- Cook Food Properly: Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish. Make sure your food is cooked thoroughly to kill any viruses.
- Clean Surfaces: If someone in your house is sick, disinfect surfaces with a strong cleaner to stop the virus from spreading.
- Stay Away: If you or someone else is sick, try to keep a safe distance for a couple of days after symptoms stop.
What to Do If You Get Sick
There’s no specific medicine for norovirus, and it usually goes away in 2-3 days. Here’s how you can feel better:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water or rehydration drinks to avoid dehydration.
- Rest: Give your body time to recover by taking it easy.
- Watch for Severe Symptoms: If dehydration gets serious, you might need to see a doctor for fluids through an IV.
Conclusion
Norovirus can be tough to deal with, but with good hygiene and careful food habits, you can lower the chances of getting sick. If you or someone you know has had norovirus, share your tips—every little bit of advice can help others stay safe.
