Norovirus
Norovirus is a highly contagious group of viruses that causes gastroenteritis in people. It is commonly known as the “stomach flu” with an estimate of 19 to 20 million cases reported annually. Gastroenteritis is a condition in which inflammation occurs in the lining of the stomach and intestines causing symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus infections are preventable with proper hand washing, disinfection of contaminated objects, and proper food handling.
Norovirus is the most frequently occurring cause of outbreaks in healthcare settings affecting vulnerable populations. It is the most common infectious agent that causes acute gastroenteritis and can survive for weeks on many surfaces and is highly contagious. It can spread rapidly in closed and crowded spaces such as healthcare or congregate settings, leaving vulnerable patient populations susceptible to outbreaks.
What are the Symptoms of Norovirus
The most common symptoms of norovirus are stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other symptoms of norovirus may include muscle ache, headaches, fever, and chills. Symptoms typically begin 1 to 2 days after being infected. Most individuals ill with norovirus experience symptoms for 1 to 3 days. Escalated symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, decrease in urination, and dizziness. Norovirus impacts all age groups, however the severity of symptoms and duration of the illness heavily affects the older population.
How can a Person Get Norovirus?
Norovirus particles are found in an infected individual’s vomit and stool and is highly contagious. Norovirus can also be spread from touching objects and surfaces such as toilets and medical devices that belong to the infected person. Ingesting food and beverages contaminated with norovirus particles from an infected person can lead to rapid spread.
Additionally, an individual is considered contagious as soon as symptoms have been identified until they are feeling better typically after 48 hours after symptoms have resolved. Healthcare facilities are at a particularly higher risk of norovirus outbreaks because of high amounts of person-to-person contact.
What is the Treatment for Norovirus?
There are no vaccines to protect against norovirus. Treatment recommendations often include consuming plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Specific fluid intake may be suggested by a physician. Antibiotic drugs will not help treat norovirus infections because antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses.
How can Norovirus be Prevented?
Implementing preventative actions is essential to preventing norovirus outbreaks in a healthcare facility. Transmission can be prevented by ensuring that proper sanitation of contaminated objects and countertops is enforced when an individual is suspected of being infected. Additionally, promoting proper hygiene including handwashing, disinfection, and thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables also help prevent the spread of norovirus.
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Main Health Facilities Center
2525 Grand Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90815
Phone: (562) 570-4000
Multi-Service Center for the Homeless »
1301 West 12th Street
Long Beach, CA 90813
Phone: (562) 570-4500
Fax: (562) 570-8234
Ronald R. Arias Health Equity Center - Center for Family and Youth »
6335 Myrtle Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90805
Phone: (562) 570-3300
Fax: (562) 570-3306
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