Norovirus outbreak in the United States and Canada; Health experts warned

 

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that norovirus is spreading throughout the United States, particularly in the Northeast. The CDC says it's hitting the region harder than other parts of the country, which have recently reported a surge in cases. It is reported that noro virus is spreading not only in the United States but also in Canada. The virus is spreading in areas north of the Canadian border. Officials say that the spread is more powerful than previous years and the number of infected people is increasing. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported a sharp increase in norovirus cases compared to the 2019-23 average.

Norovirus cases are reported to the National Enteric Surveillance Program (NESP). In addition, the PHAC stated that several provinces, particularly Alberta and Ontario, are likely to experience more Norovirus cases this year than in previous years. Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador also saw an increase in cases. PHAC also points out that the number of cases this year is higher than the average of the last five years.

Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach flu virus. Norovirus infections are more common in winter. The disease is mainly spread through contaminated food and unclean drinking water. Norovirus can spread if you touch your mouth without washing your hands after touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can also be transmitted through close contact with infected people. Vomiting and diarrhea are the main symptoms. Symptoms begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the pathogen. There will be severe nausea and abdominal pain.

There is no specific treatment for the disease. The disease is usually self-healing. The mainstay of treatment is rest and hydration.