Stomach Flu

Aqsa Dogar

MS Scholar

Superior University Lahore

Norovirus is a very infectious virus that can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea that start suddenly.  Anyone can get infected with norovirus. They commonly spread through close contact with a person who has norovirus infection or prepared food or water during preparation on contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is sometimes called the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug”. Infected people usually experience acute onset of vomiting and non-bloody diarrhea. The incubation period is 12–48 hours. We get infected with norovirus many times because there are many different types of noroviruses. Infection with one type of norovirus may not protect you against other types. It is possible to develop protection against specific types. However, it is not known exactly how long protection lasts. You can get norovirus by accidentally getting tiny particles of feces or vomit in your mouth from a person infected with norovirus. If you get infected, you can shed billions of infectious particles that you can’t see without a microscope. Few norovirus particles make you and other people sick.

Diarrhea, stomach pain, and vomiting typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Norovirus infection symptoms usually last 1 to 3 days. Most people recover completely without treatment. However, for some people especially children, older people with other medical conditions can be severely dehydrating and require medical attention.

• Some people may show no signs or symptoms but are still contagious and can spread the virus to others.
• Having direct contact with someone with norovirus, such as by caring for them, sharing food, or eating utensils.
• Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then putting your unwashed fingers in your mouth.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet or changing a diaper, repairing food, and eating or drinking. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not as effective against noroviruses as soap and water.