Norovirus infections cannot be prevented or controlled easily because of various factors. They involve low infectious dose, high shedding titre, and environmental stability. These viruses can spread through multiple routes of transmission, with person-to-person and foodborne transmission being the most important. Recent advancements in molecular diagnostics have established this virus as the leading cause of sporadic gastroenteritis and outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis across all age groups.
Multiple studies have shown that environmental contamination plays a crucial role in the transmission of pathogens of the virus. These pathogens can survive on surfaces for extended periods of time, and infections have been associated with frequent contamination of hospital rooms and the hands of health care workers. In some cases, the level of environmental contamination has been directly linked to the extent of patient-to-patient transmission.
What is Norovirus?
Noroviruses, often referred to as “stomach bugs,” are a type of virus that can cause diarrhoea and are responsible for food-borne illness and long-term morbidity in people of all ages. These viruses are highly contagious and can spread easily and rapidly in crowded and enclosed settings such as schools, nursing homes, hostels, daycare centres, and restaurants. It is known for its resistance to extreme temperatures and some disinfectants, which makes it challenging to prevent its spread.
There are several types of norovirus insurance, and exposure to one type does not provide immunity against others. This means that it is possible to be infected with the virus more than once in a lifetime. While it can infect people year-round, it tends to peak during the cold winter months when person-to-person transmission is more likely. This virus is also called the winter vomiting bug by many. However, it’s important to note that this virus should not be confused with the flu (influenza), which primarily affects the respiratory system. The virus affects the gastrointestinal system that causes symptoms like stomach cramps and vomiting.
There are various types of norovirus insurance, and exposure to one does not provide immunity to others. This means that the virus can infect you more than once in your lifetime. While it can infect people all year, it is most common during the cold winter months, when person-to-person transmission is more common. Many people refer to this virus as the winter vomiting bug. This virus, however, should not be confused with the flu (influenza), which primarily affects the respiratory system. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal system, resulting in symptoms such as stomach cramps and vomiting.
Controlling Norovirus
To minimise the spread of Norovirus and reduce your risk of getting sick, it’s important to follow preventive measures. Here are some tips:
- Properly wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing diapers, eating, cooking, handling food, or administering medication to yourself or others.
- Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.
- Be cautious when cooking seafood, ensuring it is cooked thoroughly to kill any potential virus present.
- Immediately clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach solution (1000-5000 ppm) after vomiting or experiencing diarrhoea.
- When handling and laundering laundry soiled with vomit or faeces, wear rubber or disposable gloves to protect yourself.
- Avoid touching your face to prevent ingesting the virus through your mouth or eyes.
By implementing these preventive measures, you can help limit the spread of this virus and reduce the risk of illness for yourself and others.
Covid Vs Stomach Virus
- Stomach Virus is typically spread through faecal particles, while COVID-19 is transmitted through respiratory droplets.
- Unlike COVID-19, there is currently no vaccine available for it.
- The symptoms of COVID-19 usually last around 2 weeks, while those of the virus typically resolve within 2 days.
- Although both can be serious, fatalities are higher among infants in emerging nations, while COVID-19 has primarily affected the elderly population.
- COVID-19 has been responsible for a higher global death toll, with 6 million deaths reported to date, whereas the virus causes approximately 200,000 deaths each year.
The impact of this virus outbreak has highlighted the crucial role of health insurance in safeguarding our well-being. It has served as a reminder of the need to be prepared for unexpected health challenges and have appropriate coverage in place to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
Together, these experiences have underscored the importance of prioritising our health and taking proactive measures to secure appropriate health insurance coverage, as well as leveraging the opportunities presented by remote healthcare services to maintain our well-being, especially during times of unforeseen health challenges. If you are looking to get your Norovirus Insurance, you can consult Niva Bupa Insurance Company Ltd. Read More
