Norovirus Cases on the Rise Across the Country
Cases of norovirus, commonly known as the stomach flu, are surging in the United States, with positivity rates reaching 13.4% in the northeastern region as of February 17th. This highly contagious virus can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.
Norovirus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, contact with sick individuals, and contaminated surfaces. Dr. Marc Siegel, a medical contributor for Fox News, stressed the importance of handwashing to prevent the spread of the virus but noted that it can still be transmitted through food.
If experiencing symptoms of norovirus, Siegel recommended staying hydrated with electrolyte-rich drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte. However, despite the rapid spread of the virus, the CDC currently does not plan to test wastewater to track its transmission, to the surprise of Siegel.
Norovirus poses a particular risk for dehydration, especially in the elderly, leading to approximately 100,000 hospitalizations per year. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or medication available to treat this illness, with the primary focus being on staying hydrated with electrolyte-rich drinks.
As the number of norovirus cases continues to rise, taking proper precautions such as frequent handwashing and staying hydrated is crucial in preventing the spread of this potentially dangerous virus. Stay informed and stay safe during this wave of norovirus outbreaks.
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