“Contain the Outbreak: Expert-Approved Strategies to Outsmart Norovirus this Season”
Warning: The Most Common Stomach Bug Spreads as Winter Approaches
As the winter season approaches, Americans are bracing themselves for the common cold and flu. However, there is another super-contagious virus that warrants attention: norovirus, the most common stomach bug. The United States has experienced its largest surge of norovirus in December since at least 2012, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
In the week of December 5, state health departments reported 91 separate outbreaks nationwide, the highest number recorded since 2012. This surge is raising concerns that the outbreak could continue to spread, with outbreaks typically peaking in January and February.
Norovirus is known for its rapid spread, often perpetuated by direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, food, or water. Restaurants, cruise ships, medical facilities, and schools are common sites of transmission, as are contaminated food, water, and surfaces.
Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an advisory warning businesses and consumers not to consume oysters from Washington state, Canada, and South Korea that may be contaminated with norovirus.
About half of all food-related disease outbreaks are caused by norovirus, making it a significant public health concern. According to the CDC, about 2,500 outbreaks occur nationwide each year. However, real-time monitoring data only covers 14 states: Alabama, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
The most common symptoms of norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. Symptoms typically improve within one to three days, but an infected person can still spread the virus for several days after symptoms resolve.
Prevention is key to slowing the spread of norovirus. The CDC recommends the following measures:
* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, particularly after using the bathroom and before eating
* Cook shellfish thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C)
* Wash fruits and vegetables under running water before consuming
* Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and utensils
* Wash clothes and bedding in hot water and dry them on the highest heat setting
* Stay home for at least two days after symptoms stop to prevent further spread
For those who are severely dehydrated, medical attention is recommended. In most cases, the main treatment for norovirus is rehydration to replace the lost fluids.
Conclusion:
As the winter season approaches, it is essential to be aware of the norovirus outbreak and take necessary precautions to prevent its spread. By following the recommended measures and staying informed, we can reduce the risk of getting infected and help prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus.
FAQs:
Q: What are the common symptoms of norovirus?
A: The most common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.
Q: How is norovirus spread?
A: Norovirus is spread primarily through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, food, or water.
Q: What is the treatment for norovirus?
A: The main treatment for norovirus is rehydration to replace the lost fluids. For those who are severely dehydrated, medical attention is recommended.
Q: How can I prevent the spread of norovirus?
A: You can prevent the spread of norovirus by washing your hands frequently, cooking shellfish thoroughly, washing fruits and vegetables, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, washing clothes and bedding in hot water, and staying home for at least two days after symptoms stop.
Q: What should I do if I suspect I have been infected with norovirus?
A: If you suspect you have been infected with norovirus, stay home from work or school, drink plenty of fluids to replace lost electrolytes, and avoid activities that may spread the virus.
