Noro virus - Know what is Noro virus and its prevention measures

Norovirus infection is not life-threatening, but special etiquette is still advised for children and thresholds.

2023-01-24

Author - GsGkofficial Team Member 

Norovirus outbreak in Kerala

Noro virus - Know what is Noro virus and its prevention measures. Most recently, the Kerala Health Department on Monday confirmed two cases of norovirus in Ernakulam district. According to the health department, two class 1 students have tested positive for norovirus. Symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting were seen in both the students, after which they were tested and the infection has been confirmed in the investigation. The parents of some children have also been infected by it. Vomiting and diarrhea are the main symptoms of this virus. According to the World Health Organisation, every year more than 680 million people fall prey to norovirus. However, after the outbreak, the school has declared a holiday for children from classes 1 to 5. The district administration has initiated preventive and awareness measures in view of the virus outbreak. Online awareness classes are being organized.

What is noro virus?

It is a group of viruses that cause gastrointestinal illness. Norovirus is a viral disease. Since it causes stomach disease, it is also called 'stomach flu' or 'stomach bug'. According to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), it is definitely called stomach flu, but this disease is not related to the flu which is caused by influenza virus. It is a group of viruses that cause gastrointestinal illness. It causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines in addition to severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Symptoms of norovirus

1. Norovirus is spread through contaminated water, contaminated food and contact with an infected person.

2. Its early symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea.

3. The virus can spread mainly through 'oral fecal'.

4. Outbreaks of the disease commonly occur on cruise ships, nursing homes, dormitories, and other confined spaces.

5. This virus cannot be killed by boiling water or adding chlorine.

6. This virus can remain alive despite the use of hand sanitizer.

Ways to prevent noro virus

1. There is no specific treatment available for this virus, generic medicines for diarrhea and vomiting can help in curing this disease.

2. According to Britain's National Health Service (NHS), after getting infected with norovirus, it can be cured at home.

3. Infected people are advised to rest at home as per the instructions of the doctor. They have to consume plenty of boiled water and Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS).

 

Frequently asked questions about Noro virus 

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