Norovirus is derived from Norwalk virus, the only species of the genus. The species causes approximately 90% of epidemic nonbacterial outbreaks of gastroenteritis around the world. The virus is transmitted by fecally contaminated food or water or by person-to-person contact. Norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis in the United States. Norovirus is also the most common cause of foodborne-disease outbreaks in the United States. Each year, it causes 19-21 million illnesses and contributes to 56,000-71,000 hospitalizations and 570-800 deaths. Noroviruses causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines or both and symptoms usually occur 24 to 48 hours after first exposure to the virus, and last one to three days
Norovirus infections is also called “food poisoning” or “stomach flu.” Food poisoning can be caused by noroviruses but other germs and chemicals can also cause food poisoning.
Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Watery or loose diarrhea
- Low-grade fever
- Muscle pain
Test options
A.I.I Panel : Acute intestinal Infections Panel
Learn more about Norovirus
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/norovirus/basics/symptoms/con-20029968
http://www.foodsafety.gov/poisoning/causes/bacteriaviruses/norovirus/
