Norovirus: Causes, Symptoms, Transmission, Treatment and Prevention

Norovirus is part of a family of related viruses (Caliciviridae) that are highly contagious and can be spread through contaminated food, water, or common surfaces. Infection with these viruses particularly affects the stomach and causes an illness called gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines).

Noroviruses are resistant to high or low temperatures and can be present even after the use of disinfectants.

Most people suffer at least once from a norovirus infection during their lifetime.

Mode of transmission

The spread of the pathogen is favored by the consumption of contaminated water or food. Transmission also occurs through direct contact or by touching the pathological products of an infected person (diarrheal stools and vomit).

Food can be contaminated with norovirus during preparation through contact with improperly sanitized surfaces or by touching them without proper hand hygiene by an infected person.

Norovirus can survive on different surfaces for several weeks.

Symptoms

The characteristic symptoms of norovirus consist of vomiting and watery, bloodless diarrhea. These symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last up to three days. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond this period or if you notice blood in your stool.

Other signs and symptoms of norovirus include:

• abdominal cramps or pain
• mild fever
• chills
• headache
• body aches

Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration that requires urgent medical attention. Signs and symptoms of dehydration include:

• dry mouth and throat
• decreased urine output or dark-colored urine
• dry diaper for 6 to 8 hours in infants
• lack of urine for 12 hours in children
• sunken eyes
• drowsiness and fatigue
• headache
• dizziness
• confusion and lethargy
• rapid heart rate

If a child cries without producing tears, this is a common sign of significant dehydration. Seek medical attention immediately.

Dehydration can be life-threatening, especially for the following groups:

• people with a weakened immune system
• people with pre-existing medical conditions
• the elderly or the very young
• people who have received an organ or stem cell transplant

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is often made based on the presented symptoms. The doctor may request stool tests to establish a clear diagnosis. Stool testing is especially indicated for people with compromised immunity or those who have other health conditions.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment, other than rest and rehydration. The most severe complication is dehydration. Norovirus can be serious and even fatal for children, the elderly, and people with other health problems.

In some cases, patients may receive intravenous fluids to avoid dehydration. Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications or probiotics to improve intestinal flora are also recommended.

Antibiotics do not help, as they are effective against bacteria, not viruses.

Prevention

The best way to protect yourself against noroviruses is by washing your hands properly using soap and water.

It is important to wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers; before eating, preparing, or handling food; and before administering medication to yourself or others.

Always wash fruits and vegetables carefully before preparing and eating them. Cook oysters and other shellfish before eating them.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used to support handwashing with soap and water, but they do not replace handwashing with soap and water, which is more effective at removing norovirus particles.

After someone vomits or has diarrhea, it is important to clean and disinfect the area. Wear disposable gloves and wipe the area with paper towels. Disinfect the area using a household chlorine-based cleaner, following the instructions on the product label. Don't forget to wash soiled laundry, take out the trash, and wash your hands.

Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent norovirus.

References
https://www.nfid.org/infectious-diseases/norovirus/
https://www.healthline.com/health/norovirus
https://www.catena.ro/infectia-cu-norovirus-ce-trebuie-sa-stim
https://www.medicover.ro/despre-sanatate/norovirus-modalitati-de-transmitere-simptome-si-tratament,838,n,295