Norovirus cases are surging in the New York metropolitan area, with nearly 1,300 cases reported in December 2024 alone — almost triple the number from the same period in 2023. This highly contagious virus spreads quickly and can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making prevention essential.
Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms of norovirus infection typically appear quickly and can include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Nausea and stomach pain
- Body aches, headache, and fever
While symptoms are not unique to norovirus, they can be severe and lead to complications like dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and the elderly.
Complications and Treatment
Dehydration is the most common complication, particularly for children under 2 and adults over 75. Staying hydrated is critical during recovery. For those unable to maintain adequate hydration, medical attention may be necessary.
How Norovirus Spreads
Norovirus can be contracted from:
- Contact with an infected person
- Contaminated food, water, or surfaces
The virus can persist on surfaces for hours to days, depending on the material. Items like sheets, pillowcases, and clothing that come into contact with an infected person should be washed immediately to reduce transmission.
Preventing Norovirus Infection
The best ways to avoid contracting norovirus include:
- Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly before preparing food, eating, or after using shared surfaces.
- Proper Food Handling: Avoid undercooked seafood and raw shellfish. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Effective Disinfection: Use a bleach solution to clean contaminated surfaces, as alcohol-based disinfectants like hand sanitizer are ineffective against norovirus.
- Avoid Contagion: Stay home for at least two days after symptoms subside, as you can still spread the virus during this time.
Norovirus is resilient and highly contagious, but following these guidelines can help reduce your risk of infection and limit its spread.
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