QuestionHi, I'm Chris.
Seems there is a nasty case of the Norovirus going round here in UK at the moment. Dunno how many questions you get about this virus (since you're in U.S.) but I hope you can help sort out my curiosity about it.
Symptoms I think including vomiting and diarrhea, is it possible to just get the diarrhea? (Vomiting seriously freaks me out)
Is it possible to eat anything while infected or is it just a case of 'all the water you can drink'?
Finally it is possible to avoid infection completely isn't it?
Thanks for any answers you can give.
C.Fewell
AnswerHi Chris,
I am not familiar with the current situation and epidemiology in the UK. However, Norovirus is a virus that is known to physicians since the 1970s. It is transmitted via the oral-fecal route. Meaning the highest incidence of individuals catching it is through contaminated food, water supply, and handling of vomit and feces. Symptoms of the virus are usually gastrointestinal and varies amongst all individuals. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms. Thus, you are correct that it is possible that an individual would only present with diarrhea and not vomiting. The most common symptoms start with an acute onset of vomiting with low-grade fevers which are very common in children and progresses to non-bloody watery diarrhea with stomach cramps.
Is it possible to completely avoid it? No. You can try to prevent it by drinking and using clean filtrated water, ensuring that all of your food is handled properly (i.e. if your chef is sick, throw away the food... don't share food or drinks... make sure all frozen leftover food is cooked properly, etc), and protect yourself when cleaning the bathroom or in the event you need to use a public restroom.
Since the virus can survive a high level of chlorine used to disinfect public wells and water systems, it is recommended to use bottle drinking water if the incident is high within your district of residence. Inquire with your local officials regarding water safety. If you are not satisfied or unable to obtain an answer, it is recommend to use bottled water.
If you are infected and experiencing symptoms, you should increase your hydration with electrolytes (i.e. gatorade, powerade, etc) and clean water to replenish your bodily fluids. You should change your diet to a soft and/or liquid diet until your symptoms resolve 1-5 days from the time of exposure. Avoid all dairy products and raw vegetables until your symptoms resolve. There is no longterm chronic health risks from this virus if you properly hydrate yourself and maintain proper hygiene.
Regards,
John Thai, MD
