What
is the Norovirus? What can I do about it?
Move
over Mr. Bad Flu, there’s a new virus in town. It’s a strain of the Norovirus
and it has made to the United States all the way from the Land Down Under,
Australia.
It’s
being called a Stomach Flu. Though technically different than “the flu”,
Norovirus causes much the same symptoms such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting.
This
new virus strain, named "GII.4 Sydney" was first discovered in
Australia in March 2012. It quickly mutated to England where more than one
million people have since been hit with its sickening effects. Before reaching
the United States, New Zealand and France were also hit hard along the way.
Now
it’s the U.S. feeling the pain. According to data provided by the Center for
Disease Control and prevention, more than half of all outbreaks of Norovirus
are being attributed to the new strain from Sydney. Also, according to data, restaurants
and long-term care facilities are being hit the hardest.
Scientists agree that the virus
spreads very rapidly. Fewer than twenty virus particles all it takes to infect
a single person. Considering that the particles are microscopic in size, it’s easy
to understand the difficult fight to keep from becoming infected.
This virus is normally not of
the serious variety, usually only lasting for a period of 1-3 days. However
with young children, the elderly and people with
Norovirus illness is usually not
serious. Symptoms should be taken very seriously as they could lead to serious dehydration.
Watch closely for a decrease in urination, dry mouth, or dizziness when
standing up. In children, dehydration sometimes takes the form of little or no
tears when crying. Drink plenty of liquids, avoid caffeine, and abstain from alcohol
until you are feeling well.
When in doubt or if you believe
someone is dehydrated, immediately call your doctor. Always err on the side of
caution.
Norovirus is like a Mutant
Ninja, changing quickly from one form to another. Just about the time a
protection has been developed, Norovirus changes into a stronger mutation, able
to easily fight off the best efforts to defeat it. People are asking. How can I defend myself against
Norovirus?
The bad news is no treatment or
vaccine currently exists to protect against the virus. There is not much, if
any in the way of good news.
The best way to protect yourself
is to practice safe hygiene. Wash your hands often. Use sanitary wipes, such as
those found at the entrance to stores where you shop, and invest in sanitary
washes you can keep in the car, at work and around the house. And get into the
habit of using them often.
