Norovirus Infection
Norovirus Infection
Norovirus infection is a highly contagious viral infection characterized by sudden attack of severe vomiting and diarrhea. Viral particles spread through food and water. Symptoms usually start to appear after 24-48 hrs of exposure. Commonly it is self limiting infection and patients don’t need any special treatment.
Symptoms
This infection presents with:
- Severe nausea
- Vomiting
- Cramps or stomach aches
- Malaise
- Loss motion
- Low grade fever
- Muscle aches
Causes
The cause of this infection is the contact with the virus. It is highly contagious and shed in faeces of infected person and animals. Main exposure occur through:
- Consuming contaminated food
- Contaminated water
- Getting in contact with contaminated objects or surfaces
- These viruses are highly temperature resistant and can with hold high and low temperature.
Complications
Mostly complications arises in older immunocompromised persons or pregnant women.
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Death
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other test like stool test is sometimes recommended.
Treatment
No particular treatment option is there for norovirus infection. Usually it is self-limiting and depends upon person’s own immunity. Symptomatic treatment is given like anti-diarrheal medications, fluid replacement etc.
Lifestyle and home remedies
- commercially prepared oral rehydration solutions on hand to combat dehydration
- Taking of smaller and lighter meals to combat nausea and vomiting