‘It is very contagious’: Local doctors send warning as norovirus cases surge
Health experts say the virus can spread through contaminated food, liquids, and surfaces.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A highly contagious bug is on the rise across the nation. Now, doctors are reporting an increase in norovirus cases locally.
“It is very contagious. Less than 100 particles can get somebody sick,” Dr. Matt Shoemaker, an infectious disease expert at the University of Kansas Health System said.
Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis that can last one to two days. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
“It is self-limited, meaning it goes away on its own. The biggest risk though is vulnerable populations getting dehydrated.”
Dr. Shoemaker says a lot of infants, small children, and elderly people are testing positive for the virus.
“Bringing up elementary schools, this thing can spread through congregate settings like that. Especially in areas where hand hygiene may not be optimal.”
Though cases are not as high as those in the Northeast, Dr. Shoemaker says it is still at a level of concern.
“We are seeing cases in the Kansas City area related to food and beverage establishments. Also, we are seeing cases in elementary schools.”
The CDC says the virus can spread through contaminated food, liquids, and surfaces.
“For restaurants, you know it is keenly important to ensure that people who are running restaurants or food establishments make sure that people who are sick do not come to work because that’s where we see some outbreaks starting.”
There is no specific treatment for norovirus, but the CDC recommends the following:
- Drinking plenty of liquids
- Washing your hands
- Rinsing fruits and vegetables
- Cooking shellfish thoroughly
Doctors encourage people to stay home when sick and for two days after symptoms stop.
Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.
