"Norovirus" is Coming, What Should We Do?

Summer is approaching in Thailand, and it's also the time when children are on school break. What often comes with summer is "epidemics." Which disease is coming? 

Today, NOWFOODSTHAILAND will provide information about what's called "Norovirus."

Norovirus is a virus that is the main cause of gastroenteritis not caused by bacteria. 

Norovirus can spread quickly and easily, especially in areas where many people gather, such as schools, elderly care facilities, and hospitals.

Norovirus is a cause of diarrhea outbreaks worldwide, and it is estimated that this virus causes approximately 685 million illnesses per year and is responsible for about 200,000 deaths annually worldwide, mostly children in developing countries and the elderly.

What are the symptoms of Norovirus infection?

Symptoms of norovirus infection usually begin within 12-48 hours after exposure and typically last for 1-3 days. Common symptoms include:

• Severe nausea

• Vomiting (common in children)

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Muscle aches

• Headache

• Low-grade fever

• Fatigue

How to prevent "Norovirus"

Preventing norovirus infection is very important since there is no specific vaccine or antiviral medication for norovirus. Effective prevention methods include:

Regular and proper handwashing

Wash hands with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, before preparing or eating food, or after changing diapers or caring for sick people.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (at least 60% alcohol) can be used as a supplement but should not replace handwashing with soap and water, as alcohol may not completely kill norovirus.

Safe food handling

This can be done by thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables before consumption, cooking seafood thoroughly, separating cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods, etc.

Cleaning and disinfection

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, handrails, telephones, and use disinfectants containing chlorine.

Norovirus in Thailand

In Thailand, norovirus outbreaks occur periodically, especially during winter and early rainy season. The Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, reports that norovirus is a significant cause of diarrhea outbreaks in places where people gather, such as schools, military camps, and various establishments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is norovirus different from influenza?

Norovirus is a virus that causes symptoms in the digestive system, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while influenza is a respiratory infection with symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches.

2. Can the flu vaccine prevent norovirus?

No, the flu vaccine cannot prevent norovirus because they are different types of viruses. Currently, there is no vaccine for norovirus.

3. Can antibiotics treat norovirus?

No, antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections only and cannot treat viral infections. Unnecessary use of antibiotics may lead to antibiotic resistance problems.

4. What supplements should you have to prevent getting sick easily?

For dietary supplements that you should have during this period, examples include Vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, or Beta-Glucan, which helps white blood cells work more efficiently, making your body ready to fight in all conditions.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Norovirus." www.cdc.gov/norovirus

2. World Health Organization (WHO). "Norovirus." www.who.int

3. Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand. "Acute Diarrhea." ddc.moph.go.th

4. Hall AJ, Lopman BA, Payne DC, et al. "Norovirus disease in the United States." Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2013;19(8):1198-1205.

5. Bureau of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control. "Situation of Acute Diarrhea in Thailand." 2023.