Funny how coincidences occur. So just when my daughter and I had caught this strange and miserable bug that little O had, I open a page of last month’s issue of Parents magazine and there it was, an article on “Know The Bad Tummy Bugs” or something to that effect. And there it was, the Norovirus, the bad guy who had invaded our bodies.
Thats a photo of him above by the way, in all his grim 3D glory. Heres what you need to know, as it is a very common virus:
Norovirus is the most common cause of infectious gastroenteritis in England and Wales. Although relatively mild, norovirus illness can occur at any age because immunity to it is not long-lasting. The disease was historically known as �winter vomiting disease� due to its seasonality and typical symptoms. Outbreaks of Norovirus gastroenteritis are common in semi-closed environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools and cruise ships.
How does Norovirus spread?
The virus is easily transmitted from one person to another. It can be transmitted by contact with an infected person; by consuming contaminated food or water or by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of norovirus infection will begin around 12 to 48 hours after becoming infected. The illness is self-limiting and the symptoms will last for 12 to 60 hours. They will start with the sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea. Some people may have a raised temperature, headaches and aching limbs. Most people make a full recovery within 1-2 days, however some people (usually the very young or elderly) may become very dehydrated and require hospital treatment.
[tags]norovirus, stomach virus, kids disease[/tags]
Originally posted on January 22, 2007 @ 10:22 am
