Two cases of norovirus have been confirmed in Kerala, with different symptoms to be aware of
The Kerala government reported two Norovirus infections in youngsters on Sunday. The Norovirus is a ‘very contagious’ virus that spreads through contaminated water and food. Because of the virus’s virulent nature, the Kerala government has urged residents to practice good hygiene.
“Norovirus infection has been detected in two children and their health condition is stable. There is no need to be concerned at the moment but everyone should remain careful and maintain cleanliness,” Kerala health minister Veena George told news agency PTI.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Norovirus:
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a common virus that causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when it infects people. The virus is also known as stomach flu or stomach bug because of its effect on the gastrointestinal system of the body. The Norovirus can affect everyone, not just children. These viruses have a reputation for fast spreading through contaminated foods and surfaces. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Norovirus infection can occur multiple times throughout one’s life because there are different varieties of these viruses, and infection with one does not confer protection against the others. “Human norovirus, formerly known as Norwalk virus, was originally detected in stool specimens were collected during an occurrence of gastroenteritis in Norwalk, OH, and became the first viral agent demonstrated to cause gastroenteritis,” according to a scientific report. Because of the virus’s seasonal inclination and the high prevalence of patients with vomiting as a prominent symptom, the illness was first dubbed “winter vomiting disease” in 1929. The virus was discovered after an epidemic in 1968. During that period, 98 percent of those infected had nausea, 92 percent experienced vomiting, 58 percent experienced abdominal cramps, 52 percent experienced lethargy, 38 percent experienced diarrhoea, and 34 percent experienced fever.
How Does It Spread?
Norovirus is a contagious illness. You are more likely to contract the virus if you come into direct touch with someone who is affected. Apart from that, eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated beverages, touching norovirus-infected surfaces or items and then touching your face or eating anything with the same hands without washing can all aid the virus enter your body. Food grown or harvested with polluted water has the potential to propagate the virus.
What are the signs and symptoms of Norovirus “stomach bug”?
Vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramping, chills, headache, and muscle aches are all frequent Norovirus symptoms. Symptoms might emerge as soon as 12 hours after being exposed to the virus and as late as 1-2 days later.
Can Norovirus instances be asymptomatic?
Yes, it is possible. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, those who are sick with norovirus may not show any symptoms but can still spread the illness to others.
Is the virus capable of incapacitating the body?
Many people recover in 1-2 days and have no long-term health complications as a result. During a Norovirus outbreak, dehydration is a major health concern. Dehydration should be avoided by young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
