Norovirus: The Dreaded Stomach Bug
Norovirus, often nicknamed the “winter vomiting bug” due to its peak season, is a highly contagious virus causing unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms. While it’s not usually life-threatening, it can be quite uncomfortable and disruptive. Here’s what you need to know:
Symptoms:
- Sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
Transmission:
- Highly contagious through contact with contaminated surfaces, infected individuals (through vomit or stool), or contaminated food or water.
- Can also spread through the air from aerosolized vomit particles.
Prevention:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food.
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces with a bleach-based solution.
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
- Cooking food thoroughly and washing fruits and vegetables carefully.
Treatment:
- No specific antiviral medication available.
- Focuses on managing symptoms:
- Rest
- Plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (especially important for young children and older adults)
- Over-the-counter medications for nausea and diarrhea (consult a doctor before administering to children)
- Most people recover within 1-3 days without complications.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
- Severe dehydration, indicated by:
- Excessive thirst
- Dizziness
- Dark-colored urine
- Infrequent urination
- Dry mouth and skin
- Bloody stools
- Fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea for more than 3 days
- Symptoms in infants or older adults
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