Key Takeaways:
– Florida is one of the 12 states with a high number of confirmed Norovirus outbreaks.
– The virus has spread via contaminated oysters and people in enclosed environments like cruise ships.
– The FDA issued two seafood recalls due to the potential Norovirus contamination.
– Symptoms of Norovirus include nausea, stomach pain, fever, headaches and body aches.
– Extra precautions are necessary for young children and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Subheading: Norovirus Risks the Health of Floridians
This year’s festive season in Florida comes with a stern reminder to maintain hygiene and watch your diet due to the rampant Norovirus, a stomach bug responsible for inducing vomiting and diarrhea. The Sunshine State, along with 11 other states, faces the unwelcome distinction of registering high incidences of this highly contagious virus outbreak.
The bad news is that there’s no specific treatment for this stomach bug. Individuals infected by the virus have the unpleasant fate of suffering through the ailment until it runs its course. To make matters worse, the virus is intensely infectious, with one infected person capable of spreading it to two to seven others.
Subheading: Food and Close Contact: Major Transmission Routes
Norovirus typically spreads through food, touch and sometimes, even airborne particles. The infectious bug has a knack for impacting cruise ships, restaurants, schools, and other places where people often partake in close interactions.
‘Shellfishing’ for the Problem: Contaminated Oysters and Clams
Recent seafood recalls shed light on another major culprit in this outbreak: contaminated shellfish. Shellfish, particularly oysters and Manila clams, can often harbor the Norovirus drawn from untreated human sewage.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raised the alarm earlier this week, announcing two separate seafood recalls due to potential Norovirus contamination. The first warning came on Monday, proscribing the consumption and sale of Rudy’s Shellfish oysters and Manila clams across seven states, including Florida.
Subheading: Cruise Ships: Breeding Grounds for Virus Outbreaks
Not just seafood, massive cruise ships serve as fertile breeding grounds for the Norovirus. This December, four cruise ships have reported outbreaks, with one registering over 100 infected passengers.
In response to the outbreaks, the affected cruise lines have taken immediate preventive measures. They have isolated the infected passengers to prevent further spreading and have intensified cleaning and disinfection procedures.
Subheading: Dealing with Norovirus: Hygiene is Key
As we head towards winter and more events that bring people together, the risks associated with the Norovirus mount. Health experts advise anyone preparing holiday meals to properly wash their hands to avoid spreading the virus.
According to Margaret Gorensek, an infectious disease doctor at Holy Cross Health in Fort Lauderdale, Norovirus is hard to kill on contaminated surfaces or hands. She recommends using soap and water to clean hands, and bleach-based products to disinfect surfaces.
Subheading: Staying Hydrated: A Crucial Strategy Against Norovirus
A crucial part of fighting off a Norovirus infection involves staying well-hydrated. This point is particularly important for young children and people with pre-existing health conditions, who are most at risk. Consuming beverages like Pedialyte, Gatorade, and broth are recommended, as water alone doesn’t provide the necessary electrolytes.
The recent Norovirus outbreaks serve as a stern reminder that maintaining good hygiene practices, making smart seafood choices and taking extra care while travelling can help us remain healthy, even in the face of highly contagious diseases.