During winter, it’s not uncommon for people in Michigan to get the norovirus. This illness is commonly associated with the flu, and can cause symptoms like fever, runny nose, and sore throat. This illness can be contagious and can last up to 24 hours.
Contagious periods
During the last seven months, Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services reported more than 150 norovirus-like illness outbreaks. This is an increase from the 10 outbreaks reported in January. Although many people think of norovirus as a bad stomach bug, it is actually more dangerous to the elderly and younger children. It can lead to dehydration and hospitalization.
Norovirus can be spread from person to person by touching contaminated surfaces, drinking contaminated water, or ingesting vomit particles. The most effective way to avoid getting norovirus is to wash your hands often. This is especially important when you go to the bathroom or prepare food. During a norovirus outbreak, you should avoid public places where people congregate. This includes eating in restaurants, cruise ships, daycare centers, and other similar settings. You should also avoid eating raw oysters, raw fruits and vegetables, and other foods that have been improperly handled. While norovirus is a serious illness, most of the cases don’t require a trip to the doctor. It’s also not uncommon for people to recover within a day or two.
Signs of dehydration
During norovirus outbreaks in Michigan, signs of dehydration are often seen. Dehydration can be very dangerous for young children, especially if they are not getting enough fluids. Dehydration can also result in malnutrition. If you think your child may be dehydrated, take them to the doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, decreased or absent urination, dark urine, and lightheadedness. If you are concerned about your child’s health, you may want to ask your doctor for a Nurse Advice by Phone.
Symptoms of dehydration in young children may also include crying without tears. They may also be sleepy or unusually fussy. You may want to give them an extra bottle of fluids. In addition to dehydration, other symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. You may also notice a high fever. If your child has a fever, you may need to test his or her urine for a bacterial infection. You can avoid dehydration by washing your hands with soap and water, wearing disposable gloves, and eating only clear liquids. You can also replace lost fluids with liquid meal replacements or sports drinks.
Symptoms last up to 24 hours
Symptoms of norovirus in Michigan usually begin within 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to the virus. The symptoms can range from diarrhea and vomiting to fever and stomach cramps. It’s important to keep drinking liquids to avoid dehydration. A severe case of the disease can lead to hospitalization.
Norovirus is highly contagious. Children are especially susceptible to the virus. Therefore, if you have a young child, you should not send him or her to daycare or school while you’re sick. You should also avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables while you’re sick. These foods can carry the virus, which you can pick up from a person who’s already sick. You should also avoid sharing eating utensils with others.
You can also catch norovirus from contaminated water. Soap and water should be used to clean your hands after using the bathroom. You should also be careful with soiled items, such as diapers. Soak the soiled material in disposable towels and dispose of it carefully.
Prevention
Throughout Michigan, the number of norovirus cases has been on the rise. State health officials are investigating possible sources of the outbreak, and are implementing special cleaning procedures in dining facilities. Norovirus is a type of gastrointestinal illness that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It is spread through contact with infected people or contaminated food or water. It usually lasts between one and three days, but can last longer. The infection is generally mild, but can lead to dehydration. It can also cause muscle aches and headaches.
The symptoms of norovirus are similar to the symptoms of the common flu. The illness can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In some cases, people can become dehydrated, which can lead to hospitalization. If you suspect you are ill with norovirus, stay home until you’ve had symptoms for at least 48 hours. Wash your hands often with warm water and soap. Don’t serve or prepare food for others, and avoid travel during the outbreak.
