Norovirus
Norovirus is not a reportable disease in Oklahoma; however, the Oklahoma State Department of Health investigates outbreaks of norovirus to control the spread of this disease. Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting in people. Any human can be infected with norovirus through exposure to stool or vomit of an infected individual. An infected individual can spread the virus from when they become ill to at least three days after symptoms start. Outbreaks have been linked to sick food handlers, contaminated shellfish or water contaminated with sewage. There are many different strains of norovirus, and a human can be re-infected with norovirus throughout their lifetime.
Symptoms of noroviruses include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. In some instances, individuals can also experience a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and may feel tired. The symptoms usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus but can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure. The duration of illness is brief with symptoms usually lasting only one or two days.
No specific treatment for norovirus infection is available. Oral rehydration or intravenous fluids may be needed in severe cases. Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections and should not be used for diarrheal illness due to norovirus.
Any human can be infected with norovirus through exposure to stool or vomit of an infected individual. An infected individual can spread the virus from when they become ill to at least three days after symptoms start. Outbreaks have been linked to sick food handlers, contaminated shellfish or water contaminated with sewage. There are many different strains of norovirus, and a human can be re-infected with norovirus throughout their lifetime.
Norovirus is not a reportable disease in Oklahoma; however, the Oklahoma State Department of Health investigates outbreaks of norovirus to control the spread of this disease.
Good hand hygiene techniques and proper disposal of contaminated wastes (including diapers) can prevent spread of the virus. Wash hands thoroughly with warm running water and soap, using friction for 20 seconds. Hands should be washed after using the restroom, sneezing, coughing, changing diapers, cleaning up vomit or diarrhea, contact with a symptomatic person, or handling soiled clothing or linens. Hands should also be washed before eating, before any food preparation or service, and before providing healthcare services.
No specific treatment for norovirus infection is available. Most persons with norovirus will recover with plenty of fluids and rest. In severe cases, some individuals may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids.
