Norovirus – United States

Schools in Yelm, USA have experienced an increase in student absences linked to the norovirus.

Yelm Community Schools Superintendent contacted district’s families urging parents to keep their children at home if they display symptoms of the illness, which include a sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping and/or fever.

The students can return to school once they are diarrhea free for 48 hours, fever free without medication for 24 hours, and following a school administered rapid test for COVID-19, according to the email.

Photo: Norovirus particles electron micrograph.

Norovirus, sometimes referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common cause of gastroenteritis.

Infection is characterized by non-bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Fever or headaches may also occur. Symptoms usually develop 12 to 48 hours after being exposed, and recovery typically occurs within 1 to 3 days.

This may be through contaminated food or water or person-to-person contact. Risk factors include unsanitary food preparation and sharing close quarters.

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