Number of norovirus cases has increased. Here Are Some Ways To Avoid "Stomach Flu"

Number of norovirus cases has increased. Here Are Some Ways To Avoid "Stomach Flu"

The most frequent cause of foodborne sickness, diarrhea, and vomiting in the United States is norovirus. Despite the fact that it is frequently called "stomach flu," it is distinct from influenza. Tiny particles of contaminated fecal matter that enter the mouth propagate the infection. This means you can get it by touching your mouth after coming into contact with a contaminated surface, such as a doorknob, or by eating or drinking something contaminated with the virus. Catching the condition yourself can be simple if you're caring for someone who has it.

The norovirus can induce fever, headaches, and body pains in addition to the usual symptoms of vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Although it might be somewhat uncomfortable, most people get better in three days or less. Drinking water is crucial if you have norovirus since dehydration can result from both vomiting and diarrhea. Seek medical assistance if you believe a person infected with norovirus is severely dehydrated.

There are more norovirus outbreaks in the United States. Often referred to as the "winter vomiting bug" or "stomach flu," this seasonal ailment has been at its peak around this time of year for over ten years. 91 probable or confirmed norovirus outbreaks were reported by officials during the first week of December. In the past 12 years, this is one of the highest case loads recorded at any time of year, and the highest level observed at this time of year since at least 2012.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics does not provide a complete picture of norovirus nationwide because it only presently covers 15 states. Over time, more states joining the program could have an impact on the growing number of cases. It does, however, represent peaks and patterns in the virus's propagation, which typically spreads more extensively each year between November and April. About 2,500 outbreaks are reported in the US annually, with February usually seeing the highest number.

As more people gather "for the first time in several years," it seems to be striking early and harder this year, according to experts who spoke to Fortune magazine. Increase in Seasonal Diseases People are interacting more during the holidays than they did during the epidemic, which is causing an increase in a number of seasonal infections in several nations. illnesses such as respiratory ailments and the flu COVID-19 is spreading rapidly, and RSV is also on the rise, though it no longer poses the same threat. Public health professionals are especially concerned about the comparatively high prevalence of whooping cough, which can be fatal for newborns.

In order to stop the spread of infectious diseases, nations like the United Kingdom have made a number of public announcements urging people to stay healthy and practice good hygiene. The public health system in the UK is fighting a "quad-demic" of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus, according to officials, and by early December, 95% of hospital beds in England were full.

You can prevent norovirus by washing your hands frequently. Hands should be regularly washed with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after using the restroom, changing a baby's diaper, shaking hands, or tending to a sick person. Wash any potentially contaminated clothing and linens in hot water, and avoid sharing food or beverages with someone who has the illness. To stop the virus from spreading through food, wash fruits and vegetables and prepare seafood thoroughly.

Unfortunately, there isn't a norovirus vaccination at the moment. However, tests of a potential vaccine that might one day provide protection have just begun at Moderna. In addition to measles and whooping cough, which are on the rise in the United States, vaccines offer the best defense against a number of other seasonal illnesses. Vaccines against the flu are made available each fall. Nearly everyone over the age of six months is advised to take them every year, but those who are at risk of serious illness, which hospitalizes between 140,000 and 710,000 Americans yearly and, regrettably, kills between 12,000 and 51,000, should pay particular attention to these recommendations.

RSV vaccinations are available for pregnant women and older adults, who can safeguard their vulnerable unborn children. Anyone six months of age or older should get vaccinated against COVID-19 every year. Older folks, those at high risk of serious illness, and those who have never received a vaccination should pay special attention to them.