Norovirus is a gastrointestinal disease that is particularly common among small children. But adults can also get infected easily.
That norovirus can quickly become dangerous for small children and the elderly. Diarrhea and vomiting are the most prominent symptoms of gastrointestinal disease. But adults can also become infected. You can read here which symptoms indicate a norovirus infection and when it becomes dangerous for your health.
Norovirus: what are the symptoms in adults?
Symptoms of norovirus disease appear relatively quickly. This is at adult no different from children. The first symptoms can appear after just 6 hours. Typical are:
- sudden violent vomiting
- gushing diarrhea
- general malaise
- persistent nausea
Headaches and stomachaches can also occur – in a few cases, there is also a slight fever. How long the symptoms stop. is different. The symptoms usually subside after a day or two. The noroviruses should be eliminated by the third day at the latest. The disease usually has no long-term consequences. Also read: Desire for sport – is the intestine to blame for the weaker self?
Norovirus: when does it become dangerous?
With norovirus disease, the body loses a lot through vomiting and diarrhea water and salts. The lack of liquid can make itself felt through dizziness and a feeling of weakness.
The norovirus can be particularly dangerous for small children and people over 70 years of age. Adults who are not in good health usually cure the infection on their own within a few days. If the symptoms last longer or even worsen, a physician visit. Persistent circulatory problems or high fever are also unusual.
Treatment: What helps with norovirus infection?
A special drug against the norovirus does not exist. Because it is a virus, antibiotics do not help. Only the symptoms can be alleviated.
Due to the high loss of fluids, it is particularly important to drink a lot. Rather too much than too little. In addition, sufferers can lose salts Electrolyte replacement solutions compensate from the pharmacy.
In the peak phase of infection, everyone quickly becomes food eliminated. Therefore, liquid food is particularly suitable. We recommend juices, broth or some tea with sugar.
Transmission of noroviruses: pathogens also in food
Noroviruses are extreme contagious. The sick person can still be infectious days after the symptoms have subsided. Most of the time, the norovirus is spread from person to person as a smear infection. It can also be transmitted through the air as a droplet infection after vomiting.
Even the smallest traces of the pathogen can get into the mouth from a person’s hand. Also raw Food can be a carrier of norovirus. Lettuce, shrimp or frozen fruit should be consumed with caution. Also read: From breathing to sugar – the ABCs for a healthier life
Prevention: How do I protect myself from the norovirus?
Who survived the infection is not immune. An infection must be expected again at any time. To avoid transmission, it is worth washing your hands regularly. Food, especially raw food, should be thoroughly cleaned before consumption.
After an infection should Toilet and bath be cleaned well to remove virus residues. Any viruses in the bed linen can be killed in the washing machine at at least 60 degrees. Even if you suspect a virus infection in yourself or in others, you should keep your distance from each other.
Also important: an infection can notifiable being. Anyone who is professionally involved with food should inform their employer. The person concerned may only return to work two days after the symptoms have subsided. (os)
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