This virus causes vomiting and diarrhea and is highly contagious . All people of any age , both children and adults, are prone to contagion. Although it is called stomach flu , as noted by the CDC , it is not related to the Influenza .
Form of transmission
Contagion It occurs when entering contact with contaminated food, surfaces and people .
When a person vomits spreads particles that can cause contagion. Only a few particles are enough to acquire the virus .
The food can also get from norovirus when an infected person touches food with their dirty hands .
Another form of contagion is when food is placed on surfaces that are also contaminated.
If the patient vomits, it is possible that small drops of vomit spread through the air and fall into the food .
The water can also be another form of contagion. If the infected person drinks water and leaves the glass within reach. It can also occur in septic tanks that are exposed.
Norovirus symptoms
The most common symptoms are: vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and nausea. In addition to these regular symptoms , there are others that may appear, such as body aches, fever and headache.
Another symptom is stomach pain or acute gastroenteritis. The first symptoms appear between the 12 and 48 hours after having been in contact with someone sick . In general, people contaminated by norovirus recover after 3 days.
Another problem that it produces is dehydration , and the signs are: dry throat and mouth, and decreased urination; You also feel dizziness when standing. In the case of children , they may cry without releasing tears , present drowsiness and be restless.
Treatment of the disease
There is no specific treatment to treat this disease. However, it is important to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration.
If dehydration is severe, it is necessary to go to a care center to receive adequate treatment.
In the case of children, it is necessary to monitor this symptom carefully to prevent your condition from being aggravated by vomiting and diarrhea. Do not hesitate to call emergencies in the event that the situation warrants it.
Prevention of contagion
The prevention is the key to avoid the spread of norovirus. Since there is no vaccine , it is best to follow certain basic hygiene rules , such as washing hands with water and soap constantly.
This recommendation is key and fundamental to avoid the chain of contagion. It is important to wash your hands when you go to the bathroom or after changing diapers , before handling, preparing and eating food, and before giving any medication.
It is also important to wash food before preparing or consuming them. Another alternative is to use hand sanitizer with alcohol. Of course, this will not be the substitute for washing hands with soap and water, but it is an alternative in case it cannot be do the above.
If you are sick , do not prepare food or take care of other people. Clean constantly the surfaces with which you have contact, do not approach other people, wash clothes continually. These measures will be able to prevent, to a great extent, that others are infected.
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