Norovirus Infections Spreading Widely Across North Carolina

Many health departments across North Carolina have reported an increase in the number of Norovirus cases which has prompted State Public Health officials to inform the public of what Norovirus is and some things you can do to try and protect your family. Locally within Rutherford, Polk and McDowell Counties there have been no reported cases of Norovirus. However, we realize that you may travel to other areas in North Carolina and it will be helpful to know more about Norovirus and what you can do to avoid getting Norovirus.

Noroviruses are the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States. It is usually not serious for healthy people but it can be serious in young children, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions.

The symptoms of Norovirus include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.  Other symptoms may include: Low grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and general feeling of tiredness.

There are some things you can do to prevent the spread of Norovirus. Norovirus spreads quickly from person to person in crowded, close places such as: rest homes, nursing homes, daycare centers, schools, hotels and cruise ships. You can wash hands carefully with soap and water after each trip to the bathroom, after changing diapers and always before eating or preparing food. If soap and water aren't available use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

You should also carefully wash all fruits and vegetables as well as cook oysters and shellfish thoroughly before eating them.

If you were to get Norovirus, while you have symptoms and for 3 days afterward, do not prepare food for anyone. Clean and disinfect any surface where you have had diarrhea or vomiting with a bleach solution. If clothing or linens are soiled due to vomiting or diarrhea, handle with disposable gloves, and wash with detergent in washing machine and dry in dryer.

For more information about norovirus go to the following website:
     www.ncpublichealth.com

For more information about cleanup in private homes can be found at this website:
     www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/ehs/dfp_fooddefense-epidemiology.htm

The full Press Release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services can be found:
     www.ncdhhs.gov/pressrel/2012/2012-01-31_Norovirus_Infections_Spreading_NC.htm