Recently England has been reported 154 cases of norovirus in last 5 weeks. Public health England issued warning after finding a hike in norovirus cases in routine surveillance.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus also known as “winter vomiting bug” is a highly contagious small virus and most common cause of “gastroenteritis”. Norovirus contains RNA and is surrounded by a protein coating. Scientists have discovered that by sequencing RNA there are different types of norovirus and they can easily mutate to form a new type. Norovirus is not the same as influenza virus. Some people call this infection “stomach flu” as it affects the stomach completely.
Symptoms:
How People Get Infected By Norovirus?
People can get this infection from:
· Contaminated food
· Contaminated water
· Contaminated surface
· Direct contact with an infected person.
Can A Person Get This Infection Multiple Times?
Yes a person can get infected multiple times because there are different types of norovirus. Infection from one type of norovirus may not protect from other types because immunity possibly develops against a specific type of norovirus and it is unknown exactly how long immunity lasts.
Precaution:
Washing hands properly before eating or preparing meals
Clean surface regularly
Avoid foods that might come from contaminated water
Taking more care while travelling
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment exists for norovirus infection rather doctors aim to prevent dehydration and symptoms. Fasting is not the right treatment it is important to drink plenty of fluids, eat light food along with proper medication.
References:
https://www.medicinenet.com/norovirus_infection/article.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/transmission.html