A new variant of the flu has been floating around campus, leaving many Stevens students wondering if they will be next to catch the so-called “winter puking virus.” More accurately referred to as the Norovirus. This stomach bug spreads quickly and easily, leaving many of its victims curled up in bed or over the side of a trashcan or toilet. Symptoms often include excessive vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes coupled with a loss of appetite, a fever, or chills. While symptoms only last upwards of a few days, the effects can be excruciating, however they do not pose significant long-term health impacts like the recent COVID-19 virus.
A recent uptick in cases of Norovirus reported in New Jersey, and at Stevens, prompted the administration to send out an email notification to all students warning students of the virus and the best practices to avoid catching it.
To reiterate and expand upon the information they provided, Norovirus most easily spreads when one comes into contact with an infected individual’s fecal matter. Symptoms normally onset within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, and individuals are most contagious when vomiting or having diarrhea, but can still pass the disease on upwards of two weeks after symptoms subside. It is recommended to isolate as best as possible while actively sick with Norovirus.
In order to keep yourself safe from the disease, it is recommended to actively wash your hands, especially after using a shared bathroom with someone who is sick. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against Norovirus, but traditional soap and water work well. Since it is often transmitted through contaminated food, it is recommended to thoroughly wash food before preparation, as well as wiping down any surfaces the food comes in contact with.
If infected with the virus, the most worrying problem is dehydration, since the virus will often empty your system of fluids. The best practice is to continuously sip water or a drink with electrolytes to keep your body hydrated, even if it won’t stay down. You can slowly begin to introduce solids as your appetite returns. While most cases won’t develop to this point, if you can’t keep enough fluid down to remain properly hydrated, or blood starts coming from your vomit or diarrhea, you should seek medical attention.
Winter may be almost over, but the multitude of diseases it brings along is still here, and Norovirus is just one of them. COVID-19 is still around, and the traditional colds are as well. In order to keep yourself safe, make sure to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, and make sure to wear a mask if you or others around you start to not feel well.
