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Norovirus (Stomach Flu / Vomiting Bug) Prevention
Norovirus (stomach flu, vomiting bug) is highly contagious and can infect anyone.
What is it?
Norovirus is a single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus that is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States. Norovirus causes an estimated 23 million cases of gastroenteritis and 50,000 hospitalizations each year in the U.S. alone.
Symptoms and Treatment
Norovirus causes the abrupt onset of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea that usually last one to two days. Symptoms appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. Symptom severity and/or duration can be increased among the elderly or immunocompromised. There is no specific cure for norovirus, but replacement of fluids to avoid dehydration is extremely important.
Outbreaks
Outbreaks occur in all age groups and are particularly a problem among closed populations in crowded quarters. Examples include cruise ships, schools, extended care facilities and hospitals. Norovirus can survive for days or weeks. So it is important to disinfect the environment.
Decontamination of environment and CLEAN HANDS
Decontamination of environment is an important part of controlling the spread of norovirus. The virus is relatively stable and can persist on surfaces or in the air of the environment. Keep the air clean to prevent transmission. Always wash hands or use hand and skin cleansers to prevent further cross contamination.
It is necessary to disinfect with a product that is EPA registered to kill Norovirus, such as Purefypro disinfectant. PUREFY disinfecting product kills norovirus in 60 seconds, the fastest kill time among disinfectants.