We’re sure you know about the contagious stomach bug going around in NJ and we’re here to remind you and the kids that the best way to prevent it is to wash your hands thoroughly.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, norovirus is a common illness, especially for kids, since you need very little of the virus to get sick. Daycare centers and schools are especially susceptible to an outbreak.
You are most contagious while you are showing symptoms and a few days after – but you can actually spread it for up to 2 weeks after you feel better.
It makes you feel crummy, with diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and pain or cramps. Dehydration is also a real concern.
Remind your kids of the importance of washing their hands with soap and water; they should sing “Happy Birthday” twice. The alcohol in hand sanitizer is not effective enough to kill the virus. When it comes to food, rinse fruits and veggies, cook shellfish and don’t prepare food for others during and two days after you’re sick, according to the CDC. Make sure you Lysol all your surfaces, too.
The best treatment is to rest at home, but if you can’t keep food or liquids down it’s time to see a doctor.
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