MICHIGAN — Michigan health officials are tracking a steady rise in cases of the highly contagious stomach bug, known as norovirus, and Canada’s oysters have played a role in the spike in cases in some areas.

What is the Norovirus?

The Norovirus is a stomach virus that causes vomiting, diarrheal, and fever. It is contagious and can be deadly to people of all ages. The Norovirus is most spread through contact with vomit. Other body fluids, contaminated surfaces, or unwashed hands. Anyone can become infected if exposed to the virus. and people hospitalized with the virus are at risk for further spread. The MDHHS urges residents to stay healthy and take precautions to avoid becoming infected with the Norovirus.

Norovirus Symptoms:

The symptoms of the Norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Most people recover within a few days without any special care. Yet, in very young children and those older than 65, the virus can lead to serious health problems. Such as dehydration or pneumonia. If you may have contracted the Norovirus, see your doctor immediately for treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of a Norovirus Infection:

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging residents to take precautions against the Norovirus. Which is increasing activity in the state. The virus is contagious and can cause severe illness, including vomiting, diarrheal, and fever.

Signs and symptoms of a Norovirus infection may include:

stomach pain, bloody diarrheal, rapid breathing, fatigue, loss of appetite, chills, and a headache. If you infected with the virus, stay healthy and take precautions to protect yourself and others from catching the virus. Wash your hands often and disinfect surfaces that could contaminated;

Avoid close contact with people who are sick;

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids;

Restock your emergency supplies in case of an outbreak;

Call poison control if you or someone you know has signs or symptoms of a Norovirus infection;

How do I Prevent a Norovirus Infection?

There is an uptick in the activity of the Norovirus, particularly in Michigan. You can do some things to prevent getting sick with this virus. Including washing your hands often and , avoiding close contact with people who are sick and staying healthy yourself. If you do get sick, drink plenty of fluids and rest. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) urges residents to take precautions to avoid getting infected with Norovirus. Such as washing their hands often and and avoiding close contact with people who are ill.

For more information on protecting yourself from the Norovirus, please visit MDHHS’ website or call 800-222-1222.

How will during and after a Norovirus infection?

Norovirus is a contagious virus that can cause acute gastroenteritis. It affects people of all ages but is particularly dangerous for older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and children. Norovirus believed to cause more than 20,000 illnesses yearly in the United States.

If you think you may have contracted Norovirus, please take precautions to prevent further spread:

Stay healthy and dry.

Wash your hands .

Avoid close contact with sick people, and remember to tell your doctor if you develop a fever or stomach-ache within 3 days of visiting an area where Norovirus is prevalent.

If you become infected with Norovirus, drink plenty of fluids (especially bouillon), restock diarrheal supplies (such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and bags to collect vomit), and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Remember that antibiotics do not work against Norovirus, and THERE IS NO CURE! Prevention is the best medicine!

Several infections are currently investigated in Michigan:

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services investigates several infections, including a norovirus case. Noroviruses are viruses that cause inflammation of the airways, leading to severe respiratory illness. MDHHS urges residents to stay healthy and take precautions against these outbreaks, such as washing hands often and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services also investigating a Legionnaires’ disease case. Legionnaires’ disease is a rare and deadly form of pneumonia caused by bacteria. According the Michigan department of health the best way to prevent legionella infection is to clean and disinfect environmental surfaces often, heat water to 115 degrees F or above, and install smoke detectors.

Conclusion:

As the winter months arrive, people across Michigan are preparing for the onslaught of colds and flu that tend to come with it. But health officials also warn to Michigan people about another potential virus threat. Norovirus is a contagious virus most spread through contact with an infected person’s respiratory secretions. Such as saliva or mucus. As we head into the colder months. Everyone should take precautions against catching Norovirus, including washing their hands often and staying healthy .

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