Norovirus Strikes Thousands in Britain
Filed Under assorted viruses, is it contagious? | Comments Off
Over the weekend someone mentioned to me that many people in Britain got a virus spread by contaminated computer keyboards. Now, I’m sure that contaminated keyboards were not the sole source of the virus, but it is a reminder of how we forget that just because we don’t “see” germs, they are out there and need to be dealt with – especially at this time of year.
Browsing around the internet, I did find an actual story by the Associated Press about the highly contagious Norovirus making thousands sick in Britain. Usually striking during the winter months, Norovirus is a contagious stomach virus which is transmitted between people through contact with contaminated surfaces (ie: phones, door knobs, computer keyboards, etc) or by sharing food or drink.
Also commonly referred to as gastroenteritis, the symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach or intestinal cramping, diarrhea, chills, fever, aches and pains. It usually takes a few days to recover, however some cases can be very severe, requiring special medical care if they become dehydrated.
How long are people with Norovirus contagious? People infected with Norovirus are contagious from the time they start to feel ill up until about 3 days after they have fully recovered, though some people could still be contagious for up to two weeks. This is why good hygiene is important for anyone who has come down with this virus and for anyone around infected people.
Antibiotics do not work for norovirus – all you can do is to wait it out, reduce your fever and drink plenty of clear liquids in order to stay hydrated.
How can you prevent the spread of norovirus? Wash your hands thoroughly and often, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before and after preparing food; clean and sanitize contaminated surfaces (or potentially contaminated) with bleach/household disinfectant cleanser; wash all linens/bedding that may be contaminated (especially after recovery).
