Media Release

FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: March 9, 2005
CONTACT: Robert J. Marshall Jr., Ph.D., 222-1017

Health Advisory

Norovirus (Gastrointestinal Illness) Hits Rhode Island ; Vomiting and Diarrhea Most Common Symptoms

Factsheet on Norovirus Infection

Rhode Island and other regions in the northeastern United States have been experiencing an increase in Norovirus infection. Norovirus causes short-term, gastro-intestinal illness, sometimes referred to as “stomach flu,” usually involving the sudden onset of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Although exact counts are not available, health care providers throughout Rhode Island are reporting increased cases of Norovirus-like illness. Some cases have been confirmed by laboratory tests at the state laboratory.

The Norovirus is highly communicable. People get Norovirus infection by swallowing food or water that has been contaminated with feces from an infected person. Even a small dose of virus can produce illness within a day or two of exposure. Infection with Norovirus typically causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps with recovery in 2 or 3 days—most often without serious complications. Infected persons are infectious for 24 to 72 hours after recovery and sometimes longer. No specific treatment is recommended. Persons who become severely dehydrated may require rehydration therapy.

Clusters of infection involving commercial food handlers, family caregivers or personal care staff are common. Contaminated water, ice, eggs, salad ingredients, and ready-to-eat foods are other sources of infection.

The RI Department of Health recommends that the general public take the following steps to prevent the further spread of Norovirus among the general population:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and running water
• after using the restroom, changing diapers or cleaning up vomit
• after assisting someone to use the restroom
• after assisting someone who is ill
• before preparing food or eating
• Exclude ill people from preparing food or providing medical or childcare for at least 24 hours after resolution of symptoms.
• Exclude ill children from daycare and school.
• Do not attend work or social events while ill.
• Food handlers should stay home, if sick, for at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved.
• No bare hand contact be made with ready-to-eat foods in commercial food establishments.

For additional information, refer to “Things to Do to Prevent Infectious Diseases” or go to the Centers for Disease Control website at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/submenus/sub_norwalk.htm.