The Ohio Department of Health is sounding the alarm on the highly contagious norovirus that is currently circulating in the state. This virus, often mistaken for food poisoning, spreads easily, not just through contaminated food, but also through various other means.
To combat the spread of norovirus, the department emphasizes the importance of thorough handwashing with soap and water. Hand sanitizers alone are not enough to eliminate the virus. Proper handwashing for at least 20 seconds is recommended after using the restroom, changing diapers, before eating, preparing or handling food, and before administering medication.
The department also advises individuals against preparing or handling food and caring for others when they are sick. It is advisable to wait at least 48 hours after the symptoms subside before resuming these activities, especially for those working in settings like restaurants, schools, daycares, and long-term care facilities.
It's worth noting that norovirus can be present in vomit or feces even before symptoms manifest, and can persist in feces for over two weeks after recovery, allowing for continued transmission during this period. Additionally, noroviruses are resistant to heat and can survive temperatures as high as 145F, making quick steaming processes insufficient to eradicate the virus.
Moreover, contaminated food may appear normal in terms of appearance, smell, and taste, underscoring the necessity for vigilance in preventative measures. The department warns that norovirus cases are on the rise in the U.S., according to reports from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The recent data indicates a surge in norovirus outbreaks, with 91 reported outbreaks during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the previous week.
Norovirus is recognized as the primary cause of foodborne illnesses in the United States, accounting for 58% of such infections annually. It is a highly contagious virus, and just a small number of viral particles can be enough to cause illness. Fortunately, the fatality rate of norovirus is lower compared to the Covid-19 coronavirus, with approximately 1 in 5,000 infected individuals succumbing to the illness.
In a recent incident, at least 73 people on a Celebrity Cruises ship traveling between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska were affected by norovirus, including 68 passengers and five crew members. This event underscores the ease with which the virus can spread in confined environments like cruise ships.
In conclusion, staying vigilant about hand hygiene, following proper food handling practices, and refraining from food preparation or caregiving while sick are crucial steps in preventing the spread of norovirus. Public health officials continue to stress the importance of these measures to minimize the impact of this highly contagious virus on communities.