Health officials say the norovirus is more common around the holidays when there are large groups of people together. I wanted to know how you can try and stay safe and that's the subject of a Fact Finder Report...
I talked with Fred Keeslar of the Grand Traverse Health Department and checked with the Centers for Disease Control, and here's what I found out.
Norovirus causes a sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea and can be intense. It generally lasts 2-4 days after you become infected. And while it is uncomfortable, in and of itself it's not too serious, the major concern is dehydration related to it. But there is no vaccine for it, and no anti-viral medicine you can take after you get it to make it go away.
Your best bet is prevention. Norovirus can live on surfaces, can be passed through food and other infected people. Thoroughly washing your hands often is the easiest and most effective way to not get sick, but if an infected person makes your food Keeslar says there's nothing you can do about it. If you do get sick try to stay hydrated.
Related stories:
Norovirus possibly linked to Thanksgiving illness - December 8, 2008
Outbreak hits local school - November 6, 2008
