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Causes
By Mayo Clinic staffNoroviruses are highly contagious and are shed in the feces of infected humans and animals. Oysters, salads and raspberries are among foods that have been responsible for outbreaks. Infected food handlers can transfer the virus to any food product just before it is served.
Methods of transmission include:
- Eating contaminated food
- Drinking contaminated water
- Touching your hand to your mouth after your hand has been in contact with a contaminated surface or object
Noroviruses are difficult to eradicate, because they can withstand hot and cold temperatures, as well as most disinfectants.
References
- Norovirus: Technical fact sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus-factsheet.htm. Accessed Feb. 21, 2011.
- Kapikian AZ. Rotaviruses, noroviruses and other gastrointestinal viruses. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/191371208-2/0/1492/0.html#. Accessed Feb 21, 2011.
- Treanor JJ. Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of noroviruses, astroviruses and sapoviruses. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Feb. 21, 2011.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, et al. Managing acute gastroenteritis among children: Oral rehydration, maintenance, and nutritional therapy. MMWR. 2003;52:1. http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5216a1.htm. Accessed Feb. 23, 2011.
- Norovirus illness: Key facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/norovirus-keyfacts.htm. Accessed Feb. 22, 2011.
- Canavan A, et al. Diagnosis and management of dehydration in children. American Family Physician. 2009;80:692.
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