miserable situations Stomach disorder Infection rates are rising in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data.
The latest numbers from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there have been 91 outbreaks Norovirus has been reported during the week of December 5, up from 69 outbreaks in the last week of November.
Figures for the past few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during the first week of December.
Norovirus infection is characterized by sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are often seen on cruise ships, and in congregate living situations such as nursing homes and prisons, as well Schools and Places where people are close to each other.
Here are some things to know about the virus.
Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for 58% of such infections acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.
Health experts say norovirus infection is caused by a group of viruses that spread easily, with at least 10 viral particles having the potential to make someone sick.
There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the United States. Outbreaks can occur throughout the year but are most common from November to April.
Besides vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, body aches, headache, and fever.
Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others through direct means, such as sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also spread through… food, water or contaminated surfaces.
Illness caused by norovirus usually begins suddenly, with symptoms appearing 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. Most people improve within one to three days and recover completely.
But with 19 to 21 million illnesses each year in the United States, norovirus causes an average of 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations annually, most of them among adults 65 or older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency department visits, most of which involve young children.
People of all ages can become infected and become ill from norovirus. Young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk, with dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhoea.
There is no medication to treat norovirus. It is recommended to treat dehydration by drinking water and other fluids, except coffee, tea and alcohol.
Anyone experiencing dehydration should seek medical help. Symptoms of dehydration include decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing. Dehydrated babies may feel unusually sleepy or fussy and cry with few or no tears.
Rigorous and frequent hand washing is the best defense against norovirus during the height of winter. Scrub hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals.
Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help.