Winter brings crisp air, cozy nights, and the excitement of festive gatherings. However, it also brings an unwelcome guest – norovirus. This highly contagious virus, often referred to as the "stomach flu," can wreak havoc on your digestive system and put a damper on your winter plans.
Norovirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. While norovirus outbreaks can occur year-round, they are particularly prevalent during the winter months. This is likely due to several factors, including increased travel, outdoor gatherings, and colder temperatures that can facilitate the spread of the virus.
Taking proactive measures to avoid naorovirus infection becomes crucial for a happy and healthy winter. Let's continue reading to understand norovirus and explore norovirus prevention tips.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads through contaminated food, water, close contact with an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces. Understanding how norovirus spreads is essential for preventing infection. Here's how it happens:
Norovirus can contaminate food during preparation or handling if an infected person doesn't wash their hands properly. Contaminated shellfish, raw produce, and undercooked food are common culprits.
Consuming contaminated water can transmit norovirus, especially in crowded areas like pools or recreational water facilities.
Close contact with an infected person can easily spread the virus, especially during vomiting or diarrhea episodes.
Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person and then touching your mouth can transmit the virus.
Norovirus symptoms usually develop within 12-48 hours of exposure and can last for 1-3 days. While the symptoms can be unpleasant, they are typically self-limiting, meaning they resolve on their own without requiring medical intervention. Here are some common symptoms of norovirus infection to watch out for:
By incorporating these essential practices into your winter routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting norovirus. They are as follows:
Frequent handwashing with soap and water is the single most effective way to prevent norovirus transmission. Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom, changing diapers, before preparing or eating food, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water aren't readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. .
Practice safe food handling techniques when preparing meals. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food. Wash fruits and vegetables under running water, especially if they will be eaten raw. Cook shellfish thoroughly and ensure meats reach proper internal temperatures to eliminate potential contamination.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home, especially countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom fixtures. If you're using shared facilities like pools or public restrooms, use disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces you may come in contact with.
If you're experiencing norovirus symptoms, it's crucial to stay home from work, school, or childcare facilities to avoid spreading the virus to others. Rest and allow your body time to recover.
When traveling, be extra vigilant about hygiene practices, especially at buffets, shared utensils, and public restrooms. Consider packing hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes for added protection.
By following these simple tips and prioritizing good hygiene practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting norovirus and enjoy a healthy, fun-filled winter. Remember, prevention is always the best medicine. However, if you do experience norovirus symptoms, it's important to stay hydrated, rest, and seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or persist for more than a few days.
At Family Care Centers Medical Group, we offer comprehensive care for your digestive health needs. If you're concerned about norovirus or have any questions about digestive health, we're here to help you maintain optimal gut health and prevent illness all year round. Contact us today to make this winter a season of sunshine, not stomach woes!
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
