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Norovirus Outbreak in Wisconsin: Cases on the Rise
10 months ago •source thenorthwestern.com
Wisconsin, United States
Wisconsin is currently experiencing a surge in Norovirus cases, with a positivity rate of 19% reported for the week ending November 30. The Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene has noted an increase in false positives during this period. The rise in Norovirus cases in Wisconsin mirrors a nationwide trend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks the spread of Norovirus across 14 states, including Wisconsin. Between August 1 and December 1 this year, the CDC recorded 495 Norovirus outbreaks in these states, compared to 363 reported in the same period last year. The number of outbreaks significantly increased from late November to early December.The outbreak has been particularly noticeable on the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire campus. Norovirus, a highly contagious virus causing gastroenteritis, is often referred to as the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug," although it is not related to influenza. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
The virus spreads easily between people, requiring only a small amount of the virus to cause illness. It can be transferred through direct contact with an infected person, consumption of contaminated food or water, or touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
Prevention methods recommended by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services include thorough hand washing, careful food preparation, and immediate cleaning and disinfection of surfaces after someone vomits or has diarrhea. There is no specific medicine to treat Norovirus, and most people recover within one to three days. However, hydration is crucial, especially for young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses who are at a higher risk of dehydration.
Norovirus is very contagious and is easily transmitted from person to person mostly through the oral/fecal route. Considering that hand sanitizer does NOT work against this virus, it is important to wash your hands with soap frequently. Use bleach to clean and disinfect surfaces.
In case you experience Norovirus symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care
Source: www.thenorthwestern.com/story/news/health/2024/12/19/norovirus-in-wisconsin-latest-outbreaks-symptoms-treatment/77084025007/
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