Kerala: The name “norovirus” refers to a family of viruses that can cause violent vomiting and diarrhea. It is widespread and contagious. It can be spread through infected people, contaminated food or contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is also known as the winter vomiting bug. Although many refer to norovirus as the “stomach flu,” it has nothing to do with the flu (influenza). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 685 million (685 million) cases of norovirus are reported globally each year – including 200 million (200 million) among children under the age of 5. It causes an estimated 200,000 deaths a year – including 50,000. children. Casualties are higher in low-income countries.
Caused by norovirus?
Norovirus can spread to people in several different ways. Close contact with an infected person, touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth, or consuming contaminated food or water are all ways to contract the virus. In the US, norovirus is the most common foodborne illness culprit. Noroviruses are challenging to eradicate because they are resistant to both high and low temperatures, as well as to many disinfectants.
Here are some common causes of norovirus:
1. Drinking contaminated water
2. Eating contaminated food
3. Touching your hand to your mouth after contact with a contaminated surface or object
4. Being in close contact with a person with norovirus infection
symptoms of norovirus
Norovirus symptoms usually last between 24 and 72 hours, but if they last longer than that, you should seek medical attention right away, especially if you start to have blood in your stool. Some people may not show any symptoms when infected with norovirus. They can still infect others and spread disease.
Here are some symptoms:
nausea
vomit
abdominal pain or cramps
watery or loose stools
Get ill
low grade fever
muscle pain
Confirmed cases of norovirus in India
The Kerala health department on Monday confirmed two cases of norovirus in Ernakulam district. According to the health department, two students of class 1 have tested positive for norovirus. The infection was confirmed in the test when symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting appeared. According to the report, ’62 individuals, both students and their parents, had developed symptoms of norovirus, including diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, high temperature, headache and body aches. After this two samples were sent for examination and both turned out to be positive.