By rssfeeds-admin 
What is Norovirus?
According to the CDC, norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can be spread between people and by coming into contact or consuming objects contaminated with norovirus.
Raw oysters and other filter-feeding shellfish can contain bacteria and viruses like norovirus. Anyone who consumes raw shellfish may be at a higher risk of contracting norovirus.
Symptoms of norovirus typically develop within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to norovirus. Typically, norovirus symptoms include stomach and intestinal inflammation, vomiting and diarrhea. It can also cause severe infections and dehydration, especially among those with weakened immune systems.
Typically, most people with norovirus feel better within 1 to 3 days of developing symptoms. However, they are still highly contagious for 48 hours after symptoms stop and can still spread norovirus for up to two weeks after feeling better.
Preventing Norovirus
The CDC says there are different types of noroviruses, and people of any age may get infected during a norovirus outbreak. Children under the age of five years old, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe infections.
While it’s possible to develop some protection against some norovirus types, it is not known how long protection lasts. Additionally, there is no vaccine to prevent norovirus.
The CDC recommends the following in order to prevent the spread of norovirus:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds
- Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.
- Wash laundry in hot water.
- Stay home when sick for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop
Anyone with symptoms or who believe they’ve developed norovirus should self-isolate. If you are experiencing severe dehydration or symptoms, the CDC recommends you seek medical attention immediately.