Why in news?

Kerala has witnessed two cases of the gastrointestinal infection norovirus.

About

• Norovirus is one of the primary causes of gastroenteritis. Majority of the victims are below five Years and above 65 years.
• The virus is capable of surviving low temperatures & outbreaks tend to be more common during the winter & in colder countries.
• Hence, it is sometimes referred to as “winter vomiting disease”.

Spread

The infection occurs through contaminated food & water. It can spread between humans due to Contact.

Symptoms

Major symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea & abdominal pain. It is associated with Dehydration.

Treatment

There is no particular medication to treat norovirus illness. To avoid dehydration, liquids have to be consumed.

Prevention

• Following hygienic practices, including washing hands with soap
• Using disinfectants to wash areas inhabited by infected person.
• Food items must be washed and cooked at high temperatures.