Introduction:
Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus affecting the stomach and intestine. It can be transmitted directly or indirectly to people living in close areas like schools, hospitals, etc. It can also be a cause of food poisoning. The typical symptoms include vomiting associated with watery and non-bloody diarrhea. Its incubation period is 12 to 48 hours after the exposure and remains for a maximum of three days. An early exposure does not limit the recurrence, as there are many strains of this virus. It can prove to be fatal in children, the very elderly, and immunocompromised people. Norovirus is one of the leading causes of foodborne illness.
What Is the Course of Norovirus Infection?
Norovirus infections are considered to be caused by a short-living virus that lasts for a few days. However, some prominent evidence shows prolonged or persistent infections in some conditions. The symptoms in patients affected by norovirus infection generally resolve within several days. However, the virus can transmit from asymptomatic individuals for weeks after exposure. On the contrary, the symptomatic infection has been seen in patients with immunosuppression, and those symptoms last for over two years. In children with immunocompetent problems, the symptoms last for six weeks.
What Are the Symptoms of Norovirus Infection?
The symptoms are usually visible within 12 to 48 hours post-exposure to this virus. It can be from mild to moderate. The following are some of the commonly experienced symptoms by the patients:
1. Nausea.
2. Vomiting.
3. Pain or cramps in the abdomen.
4. Mild Fever.
5. Headache.
6. Chills.
7. Diarrhea or watery stools.
8. Generalized body pain.
The range period for the symptoms to exist is between 24 to 72 hours. If one does not see any improvement beyond this period, consult a physician to know the exact cause. Blood in stools is another indication of emergency medical advice. Norovirus infections can be severe in older adults and people with compromised immune systems. Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration, which has to be considered a medical emergency and needs a medical opinion.
Following are the commonly observed signs and symptoms of dehydration:
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Extremely dry throat and mouth.
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Dark urine.
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The output of urine is decreased.
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Infants do not urinate for more than 6 to 8 hours. It can be checked by a not-wet and clean diaper.
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Sunken eyes.
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Decreased urination for about 12 hours in children.
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Fatigue.
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Sleepiness.
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Confusion.
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Lethargy.
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Dizziness.
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Increased heart rate.
A dehydrated child may cry without tears which is also an indication of dehydration.
How Is It Caused?
The main cause of this infection is Norovirus which can be there in the contaminated food being consumed by a person or can be transmitted via touching the infected person and then touching the nose or mouth with infected hands. These viruses pass through the stomach to the intestines. The virus grows and multiplies in the intestines. The body produces antibodies to fight against these viruses. These pathogens can survive in extreme heat and cold, and also, they can survive outside the body for many days.
The main route of transmission of these viruses is the fecal-oral route, but another route of transmission is also there, like droplets of vomit. It can also spread through close contact with a person who has a norovirus infection.
How Can It be Diagnosed?
When a person visits a physician, they will be asked about their medical and dental history, followed by the signs and symptoms being faced by them. Sudden vomiting, cramps in the abdomen, and watery diarrhea can be seen, along with nausea.
Various examinations can be done, like blood tests and stool tests, within 48 to 72 hours after the initiation of symptoms.
How Can It be Treated?
Since it is a viral infection, there is no specific treatment for the disease, but supportive treatment can be done. The main goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration. The following steps can be followed to assist in giving symptomatic relief:
Take Rest:
Take enough rest when infected. Do not strain one's body.
Drink Plenty of Fluids:
Maintain hydration in the body. Oral rehydration solutions can be used to replace the lost electrolytes of all ages. They are more important in infants and children. Avoid taking sugar-containing drinks as they can lead to worsening diarrhea. Apart from these, avoid caffeine.
Continue a Balanced Diet:
Infants should be continued breastfeeding or formula feeding even when dehydrated.
The following can be consumed by children and adults:
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Rice.
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Soups.
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Plain noodles.
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Potatoes.
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Pasta.
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Eggs.
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Crackers or bread.
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Yogurt or curd.
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Fresh fruit.
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Vegetables that are boiled or cooked.
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Lean proteins, for example, chicken and fish.
When severely dehydrated, one may require hospitalization with IV fluids.
How Can It Be Prevented?
As it is believed that Norovirus is extremely contagious and persistent, and there is no vaccine available yet to prevent it. Certain basic steps have to be taken to prevent getting this infection which are explained below:
- Washing hands after using the toilet or changing the diaper of the baby, or when one takes care of a sick person. Soap and running water should be used for at least 20 seconds to clean the hands. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be used.
- Wearing gloves and disposal of soiled materials and diapers in plastic bags is advisable when taking care of a sick person. A disinfectant or a chlorine bleach solution on contaminated surfaces should be used.
- Wash all the vegetables and fruits before eating them or cutting them.
- Avoid consuming foods and beverages prepared or consumed by a sick person.
- Stay at home when sick. Cover the mouth while coughing or sneezing. Sanitize hands and maintain distance from other non-infected people or crowded areas.
- Do not consume raw food or undercooked food.
- Do not travel when sick.
- Do not use public swimming pools when suffering from diarrhea.
- Avoid close and crowded environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers, schools, and cruise ships.
It is important to remember the incubation period of the virus as one may feel good within a few days, but still, one might be capable of transmitting the infection to others. Hence, appropriate preventive measures should be taken. In case one notices any serious complications or severe diarrhea, consult a specialist or physician as soon as possible to prevent any further complications and improve the prognosis.
Conclusion:
Norovirus is a very infectious disease and can spread easily if appropriate measures are not taken on time. Also, early diagnosis and treatment are necessary. When a person notices any symptoms or is suspicious, they should consult a physician immediately.
Online medical platforms have made this consultation process very easy. Hence, consult a specialist online to learn more about this condition.