What Is Norovirus? It is an animal-borne disease transmitted through contaminated water and food. There have been many cases reported from Kerala's Wayanad district.
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The Health Minister of Kerala Veena George asked people to be vigilant on Friday and also issued guidelines for the same.
Health Minister George reportedly directed the authorities to intensify the preventive activities and spread awareness about the disease. The Minister has also issued an order in the district asking people to vigilant. According to reports, the minister headed a meeting in Wayanad on Friday and assessed the situation in the state. She said that so far there is no cause of concern but everyone needs to be vigilant. She added that the authorities have been directed for super chlorination. Drinking water sources also need to be vigilant, she added.
She added, "With proper prevention and treatment, the disease can be cured quickly. Therefore, everyone should be aware of the disease and its means of prevention."
What is Norovirus?
It is a group of viruses that causes gastrointestinal illness. They cause inflammation in the linings of the stomach and intestines. The ill effects of viruses cause vomiting and diarrhoea. The disease in a way has no significant effect on healthy people, as per reports. However, it can cause serious effects in young children, the elderly, and those with other comorbidities. This animal-borne disease can spread through direct contact with infected individuals.
According to reports, the Norovirus is spread through the vomit and excrement of an infected person. Hence it is essential to know that the disease spreads at a quick pace. It can spread for up to two days after the onset of the disease.
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What are the symptoms of Norovirus?
As per reports, some common symptoms of the disease are abdominal pain, nausea, headache, fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and body pain. If someone suffers from acute diarrhoea and vomiting, it can lead to further complications.
The state government has issued guidelines according to which the infected persons should rest at home as directed by the doctor and they should drink ORS solution and boiled water.
As preventive measures, one should take proper care of their immediate environmental hygiene and personal hygiene.
The health minister's guidelines said, "Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet. Those who interact with animals should pay special attention."
"Chlorinate drinking water sources, wells and storage tanks with bleaching powder. Use chlorinated water for domestic use. Use only boiled water for drinking," it added.
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The ministry also said that fruits and vegetables should only be used after they have been thoroughly washed. Sea fish and shellfish such as crab and mussels must only be consumed after they are well cooked, the ministry said. Individuals are also advised against stale and exposed foods.
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