If you haven’t already heard about the Norovirus, it’s about time you learn all about it.
What is Norovirus?
This is a highly contagious viral infection that leads to inflammation of the intestines and stomach causing acute gastroenteritis. Young children, the elderly and people with weak immunity are more likely to get infected by this virus. Since it is easily communicable, the Norovirus spreads easily from one infected person to the next.
How Does the Norovirus Spread?
This viral infection, like any other, can spread through direct contact with an infected person. It is also common for this virus to spread through contaminated food or water. Public places like parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, etc., can put your child at risk of contracting this virus. Even dirty diapers can harbor Norovirus.
What are the Symptoms of Norovirus Infection?
Once a child contracts the virus, they might go from being entirely healthy to extremely sick in a day or two. Watch out for the following symptoms and consult your doctor if your child presents more than 2 of them:
- Low to mild fever
- Vomiting and nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Dehydration
- Chills and aches
- Lethargy
What Treatment is There for Norovirus?
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this infection, and all you can do is keep the symptoms in check. Keep your little one well-hydrated and give them easy-to-digest food. Resting is the treatment most often prescribed by doctors.
In What Ways Can You Prevent Norovirus Infection?
Follow these tips to make sure your child is safe from the grasp of Norovirus:
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands with soap to prevent the virus from entering their body.
- Be careful while handling soiled diapers. You must seal them properly before throwing them away.
- Disinfect and sanitize your home and all surfaces like doorknobs, handles, sinks, etc., regularly.
- Make sure to thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before you cook or feed them to your tot.
- If you are feeling unwell, avoid coming in direct contact with your child till a day or two after your symptoms completely go away. Also, avoid cooking food for the family during this time.
By following these simple tips, you can limit the chances of a Norovirus infection. If your child contracts the virus and the symptoms don’t get better in a few days, you must consult the doctor immediately.
Author Bio: Prapti Chauhan is a professor of Genetics in Bangalore. She has contributed to several online research papers. However, she passionately develops content on pregnancy, childbirth, childcare, benefits of cord blood banking, and umbilical cord lining, and more.