This holiday season for many New Yorkers has been accompanied by discomfort caused by a troublesome, highly contagious intestinal virus. Specifically, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Norovirus can cause symptoms characterized primarily by vomiting and diarrhea that can linger for several days. But the virus can also lead to fever, muscle aches, headache, and stomach pain.
At present, Montefiore Nyack Hospital in New York City has already recorded several cases of infection and reported the largest number of cases on Long Island and other parts of the city. Montefiore also reports that Norovirus symptoms occur for 1 to 3 days, but some, such as fatigue and dehydration, may last longer.
The CDC warns that from the time of infection, Norovirus takes 24 to 48 hours to manifest. This can easily be passed from person to person through contact with infected surfaces. To avoid contagion, the CDCs recommend avoiding sharing utensils or dishes. It is good to disinfect hands, as infection and its spread occurs by touching contaminated surfaces, especially if you then touch your face or mouth, they point out.
Experts from the Mayo Clinic recommend that those who have contracted the virus, hydrate themselves by drinking water and vitamin drinks which also relieve symptoms and eliminate toxins, as the virus causes severe dehydration, which increases feelings of nausea and cramping. “Try to eat small amounts of food frequently if you experience nausea. Otherwise, gradually start eating light, easy-to-digest foods such as crackers, toast, jelly, bananas, applesauce, rice, and chicken,” they recommend.
