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Norovirus - Medications for Treatment?
Q. What is Norovirus? Are there medications to treat norovirus?
A. Norovirus is a name for a group of viruses called Norwalk-like viruses or calciviruses. These viruses cause the "stomach flu" which is known to health care professionals as gastroenteritis. It has been more recently referred to as the "winter vomiting virus". The main symptoms are very quick onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramping which may be accompanied by a slight fever, muscle aches, and tiredeness. Symptoms of norovirus tend to last for only one or two days. But you can be contagious for up to 3 days after you have recovered from norovirus.
Norovirus tends to be highly contagious. They can be spread by contaminated food, contaminated objects or direct contact with one who is infected with norovirus.
Currently, there are no medications to treat norovirus. Antiviral medications are not yet known to be effective against norovirus. Antibiotic medicatons used to treat bacterial infections are definitely not effective against norovirus. Since medications are not yet known to be effective against norovirus, non-medicinal methods must be used to prevent and treat this bug.
Those infected with norovirus should drink plenty of fluids to replace that lost through vomiting and diarrhea. To prevent transmission, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Avoid contact with contaminated objects, food and avoid close contact with people infected with the bug for up to 3 days after they're feeling better.
For more information about treatment and prevention of norovirus and other infections... Ask Your Pharmacist!
See the Centers for Disease Control Norovirus Website for more information.