Q: I have read about recent outbreaks of norovirus in nursing homes around Charlotte. does it also affect children? Is there any way to prevent it?
Norovirus is a type of virus that causes about 21 million cases of acute gastroenteritis in the United States each year. It affects both adults and children.
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads rapidly through care facilities such as day cares and nursing homes. The illness spreads by exposure to food or objects that have been contaminated by an infected person.
Symptoms of norovirus start 12-48 hours following exposure. these symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. some people may also experience low-grade fever and muscle aches.
Symptoms typically resolve within one to two days. Treatment for norovirus focuses on preventing dehydration.
An individual who is infected with norovirus is most contagious the first three to five days, and may still be contagious for two or three days after symptoms go away. to help prevent norovirus, wash hands frequently with soap and water. Post-infection, surfaces should be cleaned with a bleach solution and clothes should be laundered thoroughly.
For more information regarding the prevention of norovirus, visit the county health department’s website:
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