KeralaNorovirus is not a new virus, it has been around for more than 50 years and is considered one of the main causes of gastroenteritis. According to estimates, the virus kills around 200,000 people worldwide every year, with most of these deaths occurring in children under the age of five and elderly people over the age of 65. Since the virus can survive in colder climates, outbreaks are more likely to occur. Occurs more often in winter and in those countries it is also called “winter vomiting sickness”. Due to insufficient surveillance during the epidemic, the number of norovirus cases reported in the UK had decreased, but has increased recently.
The Kerala Health Department on Monday (January 24) confirmed two cases of gastrointestinal infection norovirus among class 1 students in Ernakulam district. Two samples were tested after 62 individuals – students and their parents – developed symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, high temperature, headache and body aches.
Norovirus outbreak: Here’s what school officials said
School officials said they have the results of drinking water tests for the last four months. The virus infected the children of E Division of the first grade. As soon as the incident was known, the Health Department informed the officials and once again sent the water for testing. Officials said the school is completely closed and online classes are being conducted.
Here are simple ways to prevent norovirus
Wash your hands after using the toilet, changing diapers, or caring for someone who is sick. Use soap and running water for at least 20 seconds.
Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
Do not eat raw or undercooked seafood.
Avoid contaminated food and water, including food that could have been prepared by a sick person.
– Do not go out when you are sick
The Ernakulam school has been closed for three days to contain the spread of the virus. Tests are being done to see if more students are infected.