How To Avoid Norovirus? Tips, Myths & Facts

Norovirus is a stomach bug that results in acute vomiting and diarrhoea. Due to its high speed of transmission, it spreads rapidly via infected or contaminated food and water. People who are surrounded by infected individuals are more likely to become infected. 

The symptoms of Norovirus can be typically experienced within 12-48 hours post-exposure. These signs and symptoms often persist for about 2 to 3 days.

The common symptoms experienced during Norovirus are:

• Diarrhoea

• Stomach pain

• Vomiting

• Muscle Pain

• Fever

• Nausea

Usually, people recover completely without undertaking treatment. Severe cases, especially in infants, older adults and comorbid people require proper medical attention. 

The chances of getting infected by Norovirus are high when someone gets in closed and crowded places like child care centres, hospitals, schools and nursing homes. 

There are a few people who don’t show any signs or symptoms while suffering from Norovirus. It spreads quickly from one person to the next due to its fast transmission speed. 

How to prevent or Avoid Norovirus?

The chances of spreading Norovirus from one person to the other become high when people come in close contact with an infected person. In order to avoid the transmission of Norovirus, one must follow these essential tips:

• Disinfect your hands using soap and water. Make sure to maintain proper hygiene after using the toilet or changing diapers. 

• Don’t consume contaminated food and water. Avoid consuming food prepared by a sick person. 

• Before, you eat your fruits and vegetables, make sure they are thoroughly clean.

• If you are eating seafood, then cook it properly. 

• Disinfect the infected surfaces

• If you are diagnosed with Norovirus and your job involves dealing with food, then avoid meeting people. As you might infect others too. 

• Make sure you don’t travel while suffering from Norovirus. 

 Common myths and facts associated with Norovirus

Norovirus is a food poisoning- Myth- Norovirus spreads from sharing food and drinks of an infected person. However, food poisoning is caused by bacteria found in the food itself. 

Norovirus is preventable- Fact- The best way to prevent Norovirus is to maintain good hygiene, wash your hands thoroughly, clean your fruits and vegetables before eating and not coming into contact with the infected people. 

Pregnant women face more danger if they are infected with Norovirus- Myth- Researches have suggested that there is no such danger faced by pregnant women. If a pregnant woman somehow gets the Norovirus then she should stay hydrated and take proper rest during that time. Vomiting and diarrhoea in Norovirus can cause electrolyte imbalances.

Medicines can kill Norovirus- Myth- Unfortunately, there is no medication available for killing Norovirus. But the best part is- it will completely disappear in about 1 to 3 days. The only danger associated with Norovirus is dehydration. Hence, keep yourself hydrated all the time.