Healthy Living

When it comes to illnesses that seem to spread like wildfire this time of year the one I fear the most is norovirus. We once picked it up on a trip to Disney when I was pregnant with our 3rd child and it was the stuff of nightmares. I had no idea what was going on or how to fix it. We just kept getting it back every time We started to feel better. This forced me to learn what to do if you get norovirus. Because this virus can live on hard surfaces for a long period of time and we do not develop immunity to it. This means if you don't take steps to stop the spread it just keeps going. Ironically, I started this post a few days ago we were hit with norovirus overnight before I could finish writing. We have been cleaning to help prevent getting it back but it was a rough couple of days. What is norovirus? Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Often referred to as the "stomach bug" or "stomach flu," it spreads quickly, especially in close quarters like schools, cruise ships, and nursing homes. Despite being unpleasant and even a nightmare to deal with, most cases of norovirus are short-lived, and people recover fully without any long-term health effects. This doesn't mean you shouldn't make every effort to help control it. What are the symptoms of Norovirus? If you catch norovirus, you’ll probably know it pretty quickly. The fact is it's really hard. To miss. The most common symptoms include: Nausea and vomiting (sometimes violently) Diarrhea, often watery Stomach cramps or pain Low-grade fever or chills Muscle aches and fatigue Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last one to three days. Even after you feel better, you can still spread the virus for a few days, so be cautious around others. Even if you feel better keep making effort to not spread the virus. How is Norovirus Treated? There’s no specific medication to cure norovirus only to help keep you comfortable, but the good news is that it usually clears up on its own. The main focus is staying hydrated since vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids—water, electrolyte drinks, or clear broths—to keep your body balanced. For severe dehydration, especially in young children or older adults, medical attention may be necessary. When choosing drinks avoid anything heavy in red coloring as. This can lead to unnecessary panic. Rest as much as possible and stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, and bananas once your stomach can handle them. Avoid dairy, alcohol, and caffeine until you’re fully recovered to reduce dehydration and stomach symptoms. How to keep comfortable with norovirus Norovirus like other viruses doesn't have a miracle cure but there are some things you can do to help keep your family more comfortable while they are sick. Medication like Pepto bismuth can help to calm the symptoms and keep you more comfortable. A simple bland diet of things like crackers can make a big difference if you are feeling hungry. You may not feel hungry at all. This is totally normal. Gatorade or other electrolyte drinks like Pedialyete without food dyes that can be scary when you vomit it up is a great way to help prevent dehydration. Be sure to sip not chug it to help keep it down. Generale is great for settling an upset stomach. If you are from Michigan like me you know that Vernors is the best upset stomach treatment. How can you prevent the spread of Norovirus? Norovirus spreads through direct contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or water, or touching contaminated surfaces. To keep it from making the rounds in your home or workplace, follow these tips: Make sure your family is getting enough vitamin A. Vitamin A has been proven to help boost the immune system and fight off viruses like the norovirus, measles, and hand, foot, and mouth. Vitamin A helps the body fight off viruses and can shroten the duration of many viral illnesses and may be able to even prevent them. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food. A good rule of thumb when sick or in a house with someone who is sick is to wash your hands anytime you pass a sink. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can not fight off norovirus. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner. All hard surfaces you come into contact with are fair game for spreading the virus and even catching it back over and over. Bleach is honestly the only real solution if things get out of hand. Wash laundry thoroughly, especially items soiled by vomit or diarrhea. When you feel better be sure to wash all of your bedding to reduce the risk of reinfection. Avoid preparing food for others if you’re sick or recovering. Leave. The cooking to someone that feels fine. If you can't scrub your hands well and wear a mask to prevent the spread of norovirus. Stay home until at least 48 hours after symptoms subside to avoid spreading the virus. This is vital if you work with the public, particularly around food. While norovirus is notorious for its ability to spread quickly, good hygiene and a little extra caution can help keep it at bay!