By Sheri Monk

An outbreak of Norovirus has been confirmed at Gull Lake Health Care Centre and Shaunavon Care Centre is also in the midst of an outbreak, strongly suspected to be Norovirus. As a result, both centres are closed to visitors until further notice. An exception to the rule is for those in the last stage of life, but visitors are restricted to one at a time.
Norovirus travels through its victims quickly, most often passing from the body within 48 hours. However, the virus can exact a taxing toll, the most common complication is dehydration.
Symptoms begin within one or two days of exposure and include nausea, vomitting, diarrhea and stomach cramps and also can also cause a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Typically, acute symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea pass after eight hours of the sudden onset of the illness.
Norovirus is spread by coming into contact with the stool or vomit of an infected individual. Exposure can come from a secondary source, such as clothing, carpet or counters contaminated by vomit or feces carrying the virus.
Beth Vachon, executive director of Community Health Services for Cypress Health Region, says Norovirus usually rears its ugly head earlier in the winter season. She believes the precautions around hygiene earlier in the season due to H1N1 concerns delayed the virus this season. However, as the flu fears subside, so may have efforts to prevent its spread.
“Now that it’s (the flu) not as prevalent in the news, I think people have let their guard down,” Vachon said, reiterating the need for hygiene measures.
To prevent the spread of Norovirus, frequent handwashing in warm, soapy water is one of the best ways to fight back. Food should be well-cooked and fruit and vegetables washed before serving. In the midst of an illness, ensure all surfaces are washed and disinfected.
Washing hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before eating or preparing food. This is very important if you have recently been ill or if in contact with an ill person.
Infected individuals are contagious from the time symptoms manifest in the patient until about four days after symptoms disappear. Immunity to the virus is limited – the same individual can become sick with the virus time and time again.