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Norovirus: What is it? Who's at risk? And why won't hand sanitizers work?


Published on 2025-01-20 17:43:20 - MSN
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  • Norovirus
  • a highly contagious virus known for causing gastrointestinal distress
  • is making headlines this winter due to a sharp rise in cases and widespread outbreaks in Canada, the United States, and beyond.

The article from MSN discusses Norovirus, commonly known as the stomach flu, which is highly contagious and causes symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces, and direct contact with infected individuals. The virus is particularly resilient, surviving on surfaces and resisting many common disinfectants. Notably, hand sanitizers are ineffective against Norovirus because they do not destroy the virus; instead, thorough hand washing with soap and water is recommended. Those at higher risk include young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The article emphasizes the importance of hygiene practices like washing hands, cleaning surfaces with bleach solutions, and isolating those who are sick to prevent outbreaks, especially in settings like schools, hospitals, and cruise ships where outbreaks are common.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/norovirus-what-is-it-who-s-at-risk-and-why-won-t-hand-sanitizers-work/ar-AA1xxKna ]