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Published: March 01, 2010 10:07 pm
Norovirus (stomach flu) is circulating
Tribune-Star staff report
TERRE HAUTE ? Norovirus, also known as the ?stomach flu,? is circulating throughout Indiana. Norovirus should not be confused with influenza, a respiratory illness that is characterized by fever, sore throat, cough and muscle aches. Noroviruses are shed mostly in feces and are very easily transmitted by consuming contaminated food or beverages or having close contact with someone who is ill. The symptoms of norovirus generally include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping which lasts anywhere from 1-2 days.
Norovirus is very contagious and can spread rapidly from person to person. Those infected with the virus are still considered contagious for up to two weeks after recovery.
Prevention includes thorough and frequent handwashing (especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, before eating and before preparing food), disinfecting high-traffic areas with a 1:10 solution of bleach, exclusion of anyone who is symptomatic with diarrhea and vomiting from high-risk settings. High-risk settings include schools, day cares and preschools, food service, long-term care facilities and health care facilities.
For more information, contact the Vigo County Health Department Clinic at (812) 462-3431.
Norovirus (stomach flu) is circulating
Tribune-Star staff report
TERRE HAUTE ? Norovirus, also known as the ?stomach flu,? is circulating throughout Indiana. Norovirus should not be confused with influenza, a respiratory illness that is characterized by fever, sore throat, cough and muscle aches. Noroviruses are shed mostly in feces and are very easily transmitted by consuming contaminated food or beverages or having close contact with someone who is ill. The symptoms of norovirus generally include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping which lasts anywhere from 1-2 days.
Norovirus is very contagious and can spread rapidly from person to person. Those infected with the virus are still considered contagious for up to two weeks after recovery.
Prevention includes thorough and frequent handwashing (especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, before eating and before preparing food), disinfecting high-traffic areas with a 1:10 solution of bleach, exclusion of anyone who is symptomatic with diarrhea and vomiting from high-risk settings. High-risk settings include schools, day cares and preschools, food service, long-term care facilities and health care facilities.
For more information, contact the Vigo County Health Department Clinic at (812) 462-3431.
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