It is often popularly known as a virus or stomach flu, but to define it that way is a mistake. It is also often confused with gastroenteritis, but again, this is incorrect, since they are not the same. In fact, norovirus is the main cause of inflammation of the stomach and intestines, that is, acute gastroenteritis. So what exactly is norovirus?
It can affect people of all ages and its biggest problem is that it spreads very easily. People who get sick with norovirus release a large number of particles, of which only a tiny part is enough to spread. Either by direct contact, by consuming contaminated food or water, or even by touching surfaces.
Norovirus is the name for a group of viruses that are related to each other, are highly contagious and cause vomiting and diarrhea among their main symptoms, which begin to appear in the first 12 and 48 hours after exposure. There are many different types of these viruses, so it is highly likely that you will be infected multiple times throughout your life. This is not only because having passed one of them does not ensure protection against others, but also because the period of immunity is indeterminate.
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines is what is known as acute gastroenteritis, one of the most frequent consequences of norovirus. The most common symptoms of noroviruses are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. It is also possible to suffer from fever, headache and body aches.
Typically, people infected with a norovirus usually get better within one to three days simply by resting and consuming enough fluids. This is because the main problem with noroviruses is to prevent dehydration of the body. In the event that the pain and vomiting are very intense, even if the stool begins to present blood, it will be necessary to see a doctor immediately.
On the other hand, if the symptoms are not so pronounced, but several days go by and they do not improve, or the diarrhea continues to persist, it will be essential to go to a medical consultation to check the patient’s condition and analyze their situation.
Young children, the elderly, people with a weakened immune system or suffering from other diseases, as well as pregnant women, correspond to profiles that should be especially careful and see a doctor if necessary. Although norovirus is usually a common and uncomplicated infection, in certain cases it can be serious and even fatal.
