Robert Cavagnol, MD, MHA, FACS President, North Region | ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Appleton
Robert Cavagnol, MD, MHA, FACS President, North Region | ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Appleton
With norovirus cases increasing nationwide, ThedaCare is offering guidance on prevention and management of the illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are about 2,500 reported norovirus outbreaks annually in the United States, primarily occurring from November to April.
Dr. Maria Rossi, a family medicine physician with ThedaCare Physicians-Menasha, provided advice on handling gastroenteritis. "No one wants to endure a bout of gastroenteritis," she said. "With rest and self-care measures, most people recover within a few days. If symptoms worsen and become severe, we’re advising people to seek medical attention from their health care provider."
Norovirus is often called the stomach flu but is unrelated to seasonal influenza. It causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to diarrhea and vomiting. "This highly contagious gastrointestinal bug causes sudden bouts of diarrhea and vomiting," Dr. Rossi explained.
The CDC reports that norovirus results in approximately 109,000 hospitalizations, 21 million illnesses, and 900 deaths each year in the U.S. The virus spreads quickly through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated food or surfaces.
"The virus spreads easily in confined places like daycare centers, schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships," Dr. Rossi noted. She also mentioned that foodborne outbreaks occasionally occur in restaurants involving fresh fruits, leafy greens, and shellfish.
Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, fever, and chills. Most people recover within one to three days by following home care measures such as resting well and staying hydrated.
In some cases, gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration which poses risks for young children, pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Dr. Rossi advised watching for signs of dehydration like decreased urine output or dry skin.
To prevent spreading the virus further: wash hands frequently; clean fruits thoroughly; sanitize kitchen utensils regularly.
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