Norovirus’ stomach flu propagates us: these are the symptoms

Norovirus, a very contagious stomach virus, spreads quickly in the United States while the country approaches the peak of its winter season. The virus, which causes gastroenteritis, generally sees an increase in epidemics during this time of the year. Canada has also pointed out generalized epidemics, while infection rates in the United Kingdom have reached a record.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Norovirus epidemics in early December have reached their highest levels for this period of the year since 2012. During the week ending on December 5, 2024, at least 91 suspicions and confirmed to Norovirus epidemics reported in the United States – more than double the number recorded during the same week in the past three years.

Dr. Khuzaima Khamaisi, specialist in infectious diseases with clarit health services in the northern district of Israel, explains: “Norovirus occasionally causes epidemics in the United States, so it is not unusual. It is an extremely contagious virus and a main cause of gastrointestinal infections. »»

Israel has not seen a significant norovirus epidemic in recent years, but Khmaisi notes that some people can contract the virus and not consult a doctor, which means that cases are not reported. The virus is detected by a simple molecular PCR test using a stool sample.

She also points out that alcohol -based hands disinfectants, including hand gels, are ineffective against norovirus. Instead, hand washing frequently and in -depth with soap and water is the best preventive measure.

Norovirus refers to a group of viruses which are the main cause of acute gastroenteritis, which manifests itself as vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. Although often called the “gastric flu”, it is not linked to the flu, which affects the respiratory system.

“The virus is very contagious and propagates by direct contact with infected people, food and contaminated drinks or contaminated surfaces,” explains Khamaisi. “Epidemics spread quickly and are difficult to control, especially in households, schools, daycares, nursing homes, cruise ships and other confined spaces.”

Norovirus epidemics occur all year round but are the most frequent in winter. In the United States, the virus causes around 19 to 21 million infections, 109,000 hospitalizations and 900 deaths per year, according to the CDC. It is a major cause of illness in children, and in developing countries, it is linked to around 50,000 deaths per year per year.

Khamaisi explains that the symptoms generally appear from 12 to 48 hours after exposure and suddenly and intensely appear. “The current signs include aqueous diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain or cramps and nausea,” she said. “People can also experience headache, low -ranking fever, chills and fatigue.”

Most individuals are recovered within one to three days, but complications such as dehydration can occur, especially in children, the elderly or those whose weakened immune system.

A person infected with norovirus is contagious from the start of the symptoms and the rest for several days after recovery. However, the virus can continue to be lost in stool for two weeks or more, increasing the risk of reinfection through contaminated surfaces.

Why is norovirus propagate if RRPIDLY?

Experts cannot determine the exact reason for the current tip in cases of Norovirus, but they suggest several contributory factors:

Gii.17 Strain: Norovirus has many strains, and one, known as GII.17, has become more and more dominant in the United States in the past, this strain was rare, which means that fewer people had built immunity there. In recent months, seven out of 10 out of 10 epidemics in the United States have been linked to this strain.

Winter conditions: The virus thrives in the coldest months when people spend more time inside.

High infecture: only a small number of viral particles are needed to cause an infection. These particles can survive on surfaces for weeks, which makes noroviruses particularly easy to spread.

Norovirus is mainly spread through the Fécale-Oral route, which means that the particles of the vomit or the stools of an infected person enter the mouth of another person. Current transmission methods include:

Direct contact with an infected person (such as hand handles or firm physical contact)

Sharing utensils, food or drinks

Touch the contaminated surfaces, such as door handles, taps or lighting switches, then touch the mouth

Eating contaminated foods, such as crustaceans, raw or under-cuite or insufficient fruits or vegetables

“There is no specific drug for norovirus, and the disease is generally resolved by itself in a few days,” explains Khmaisi. “However, the symptoms can be managed by remaining hydrated with water, low sodium content or oral rehydration solutions, and eating light and easily digestible foods. It is also crucial to rest sufficiently, Because the symptoms can be exhausting.

Currently, there is no approved vaccine for Norovirus. However, several pharmaceutical companies, including Moderna, are working on the development of vaccines. Promising clinical trials are at advanced stages, some using mRNA technology – similar to COVVI -19 vaccines.