Norovirus is extraordinarily contagious, and, as anybody who has had it might probably inform you, extraordinarily disagreeable. Cases of the sickness — which may trigger nausea, abdomen ache and diarrhea — are on the rise in the United States, in response to knowledge from the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention.
Right here’s what to find out about norovirus, and find out how to shield your self.
What are norovirus signs? How lengthy do they final?
The sickness generally causes vomiting and diarrhea. Some folks can develop a fever, physique aches or abdomen ache. “You’re feeling fairly terrible,” mentioned Dr. Michael Angarone, an infectious illness specialist at Northwestern Medication.
“If you happen to’ve ever had it, you understand you’ve had it,” he added.
Usually, signs emerge round 12 to 48 hours after somebody is uncovered to the virus. Most individuals contaminated with the virus will get higher inside one to 3 days. However norovirus could cause extra severe sickness in some sufferers, notably younger youngsters and older folks. In uncommon circumstances, it might probably result in hospitalization and even dying. If you happen to assume you have got norovirus and really feel very dizzy, or in case your urine turns darkish otherwise you’re not urinating in any respect, you need to search medical consideration, docs mentioned.
How does norovirus unfold?
Simply. As a result of the illness spreads by direct contact with the virus, it thrives in environments the place persons are packed tightly collectively, like day cares and nursing properties. It’s also possible to get sick by touching a contaminated floor after which touching your mouth. The virus may also unfold by meals if contaminated individuals who have small traces of feces on their palms deal with meals, or if vomit particles from an contaminated individual land on meals.
