Summer Bummer: Don’t let norovirus ruin your warm-weather fun

Key Takeaways:

• Norovirus – commonly referred to as the “stomach bug” or “stomach flu” – can be spread through the water in swimming pools and through food handling.
• Common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
• To stop the spread, wash your hands regularly and stay home when you’re sick.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis among people of all ages in the United States.

Each year, there are about 2,500 reported outbreaks in the United States.

It can spread through water, like swimming pools, and through food handling.

But what is it, and how do you prevent it?

In this blog, we’re going to talk about how you can keep this stomach virus from ruining your summer fun.

What is norovirus?

While it is sometimes called the “stomach bug” or “stomach flu,” norovirus is not caused by the influenza (flu) virus. Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach or intestines.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms, which develop 12-48 hours after exposure, include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Other, less common symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches.

How is it spread?

It spreads easily when infected individuals contaminate the water in swimming pools. Chlorine can help, but it does not instantly kill the virus.

So, it’s important to avoid swimming if you are sick, especially within the first 48 hours after symptoms subside. Consider showering before you get into the pool, take frequent breaks, and wash your hands often.

It can also spread through food handling. It’s very important to wash and clean your hands before food preparation. If you are sick. Avoid prepping food for others, and make sure you’re cautious around shared eating places, such as picnics or buffets.

If you’re sick, it’s probably best for someone else to be doing meal prep, pass the torch to the next grill master.

How long am I contagious?

Stay home for 48 hours after symptoms subside. It’s possible to spread norovirus for two weeks or more after you feel better.

When should I seek medical attention?

There is no reliable medication to treat norovirus, and most people start to feel better within one to three days.

Because of the fluids lost from vomiting and diarrhea, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

When dehydration becomes severe, medical attention may be necessary. Symptoms include confusion, fainting, no urination for eight hours or more, a weak or rapid pulse, and rapid breathing.

Do your part to stop the spread

The good news about communicable diseases like norovirus is that we can all do our part to stop it from spreading to others. And it only involves two easy steps.

First, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. If handwashing isn’t feasible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

And second, if you or a family member is sick, stay home. It’s no fun to have to stay inside when the weather is warm, but keeping norovirus contained is the best way to protect your friends and neighbors.