Alberta Health Services has identified 64 suspected outbreaks of norovirus, and is reminding people to take precautions to help prevent the spread of the illness.
“I cannot give you information specific to St. Albert, but we do have 64 suspected outbreaks of the norovirus. That’s not 64 people. That’s 64 clusters of people in schools, daycares, long-term-care facilities and hospitals in the Edmonton area,” said Dr. Christopher Sikora, Edmonton Zone Medical Officer of Health.
Norovirus is commonly prevalent in late fall and in the winter months, Sikora said.
“We’ve had more outbreaks this year than last,” he said.
Symptoms of norovirus include vomiting and diarrhea and may include muscle aches and low-grade fever. The fevers and vomiting may last 48 to 72 hours and sufferers are asked to stay home and wait it through.
“Stay home! Don’t interact with other people. Don’t visit anyone, but especially, don’t visit anyone in the hospital or in a long-term nursing facility,” Sikora said.
Sikora advised washing hands both before and after using the toilet, because norovirus is transmitted through fecal and oral contact via the face, nose and mouth.
“If you get norovirus, you have ingested something contaminated with norovirus,” he said, adding that people can become infected again and again with the illness.
“You could have it today and then get it again next week. You won’t necessarily have immunity,” Sikora said.
The best treatment for norovirus is to try to stay as hydrated as possible, because the greatest danger, especially for babies, is dehydration.
“Signs of dehydration are decreased urine output and cold, clammy skin. If you are sick and vomiting, try to take little sips of water and get as much fluid in as you can.”
Phone calls to St. Albert’s Catholic and Protestant school boards did not show there has been an increased absentee rate because of norovirus.
For more information, call Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).
