WHAT IS NOROVIRUS?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can be transmitted from an infected person, contaminated food or water or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. The disease manifests itself in abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting following inflammation of the stomach and intestines. There is always a risk of dehydration, especially for young children and the elderly.

This virus is now considered the leading cause of gastroenteritis in the United States.

Symptoms manisfest 12 to 48 hours after contact with the virus. Most people feel better after 1 to 3 days. Note that the virus remains in the stool of the infected person for 2 weeks or more after the symptoms end and thus remains a risk of spread.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Travellers to restricted areas with high numbers of people are at greater risk of contracting this type of virus. For example, people travelling on cruise ships are particularly at risk.

HOW TO AVOID IT?

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water. If this is not possible, use an antiseptic for hands containing alcohol.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes or only when your hands are clean.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables with clean water.
• Make sure shell seafood is thoroughly cooked before eating.
• Clean work surfaces to prepare food.

YOU THINK YOU CAUGHT HIM?

• When you have symptoms, stay away from other people, do not prepare meals and do not have close contact with others. Do not share utensils or glasses.
• Moisturize yourself! Drink uncontaminated water or reconstituted rehydration salts with bottled water.
• Use acetaminophen as needed to reduce fever
  Get some rest.
• If you think you have contracted norovirus and despite hydration, you do not see any improvement, consult a doctor quickly.

We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.

For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.