Norovirus, also known as the Norwalk virus or winter vomiting disease, is a stomach flu/bug-like virus that spreads through small particles of poop and vomit, it’s gross but true. It’s symptoms include vomiting, fever, headaches, body aches, and diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea cause dehydration and sleepiness, which can lead to more health issues and even death if not treated quickly. If you have any symptoms related to these, it’s best to tell your doctor about it so they can properly swab you not only for the Norovirus but any other viruses such as the flu virus.
“The symptoms can last 24 to 48 hours and can be different for everyone, “ Dr. Sarah Sobik said.
Those who get norovirus can have varying symptoms depending on who gets it. People with weak immune systems like the elderly, or kids are more susceptible to getting the norovirus and dying to it. Healthy people can get better within the first 24 hours of getting the norovirus if caught quickly and they know how to fight off the sickness. Immune systems are especially weak in people with a history of cancer, organ transplants, mononucleosis, or measles. Immune systems are like your body’s armor or protection to fight off viruses and sickness.
“Vaccines can also help to fight off and kick out the viruses. Vaccines can help your body recognize the virus faster so it can kick it out,” Dr. Sobik said.
Places that don’t have good hygiene or have thousands of people trapped together like on a cruise ship are easily susceptible to it, and it’s even been nicknamed the Cruise Ship Virus by some. In October, the Coral Princess set sail on a Pacific crossing cruise. During its time out at sea, out of 1,822 passengers, 69 of them caught the norovirus with 22 of the 907 crew catching it as well.
“This virus spreads very easily, especially in places like schools,” Dr. Sobik said.
To prevent getting sick or catching said virus, take these next steps: Wash your hands frequently. Do this before eating, preparing food, after using the restroom, or touching a surface that is used a lot(ex. Door Knob, phone, or railing). Don’t put your hands into your mouth without washing your hands(thoroughly) or place it near your face. Don’t get near sick people or those who may have the norovirus. Germs and viruses spread easily through the air and onto you. Stay healthy and active! A stronger immune system happens when you stay healthy by eating good foods and doing physical activity. A weaker immune system means you’re more likely to get it. Use a tissue or your elbow to cover up a cough or sneeze to prevent your own germs from spreading. Keep up on your local vaccines such as the flu shot or coronavirus shot. These help to prevent you from getting sick all together!
However, if you do get it there’s a couple steps you can take to help you not only get better but stay comfortable while you have it. Drink lots of water and eat soft non spicy foods, which is way easier on a nauseous stomach. Remember to eat slowly and take small sips when drinking to help soothe your stomach, not overwhelm it. After vomiting don’t eat for a couple hours so your stomach can rest up, and when you do eat soft foods like bananas, crackers, and toast. You also need to rest up and get some sleep, with little to no physical activity so your body can focus solely on healing up. And while you may be sick, it does not excuse you from not washing your hands, which you should still do frequently especially if you’ve been coughing.
“Norovirus is a yucky virus, so if you get it remember to drink plenty of fluids, get rest, and wash your hands,” Dr. Sobik said.
