Norwalk virus, also known as Norovirus, is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as the stomach flu. It is named after Norwalk, Ohio, where the first documented outbreak occurred in 1968. Norwalk virus belongs to the Caliciviridae family and is one of the most common causes of viral gastroenteritis worldwide.
The virus is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, which means it can be contracted by consuming contaminated food or water, touching contaminated surfaces, or having direct contact with an infected person. Norwalk virus can survive on surfaces for a long time and is highly resistant to common disinfectants, allowing it to easily spread in closed environments such as schools, hospitals, cruise ships, and nursing homes.
Symptoms of Norwalk virus infection usually appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and occasionally low-grade fever. The illness is self-limiting, typically lasting for 1 to 3 days, but severe cases can result in dehydration, especially in young children, elderly individuals, or people with weakened immune systems.
To prevent the spread of Norwalk virus, proper hand hygiene, such as handwashing with soap and water, is crucial. Thoroughly cooking food, especially shellfish, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces are also essential precautions. Vaccines for Norwalk virus are not currently available, so containment efforts focus on managing outbreaks through infection control measures, isolation, and hygiene practices.
