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Have you felt extremely queasy anytime over these past few months? If so, it’s possible what you were feeling was a stomach flu.
The norovirus—commonly known as the stomach flu—is one of the most common illnesses in the U.S., and it tends to coincide with winter weather. Lasting anywhere from 12 hours to 4 days or more, this virus can make people feel nauseous, and may cause reactions including diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. We are still in the midst of stomach flu season, so keep reading to learn what steps you can take to avoid getting sick from it, courtesy of our experienced medical professionals at Texas Emergency Care Center 281) 238-5039.
When Does Stomach Flu Season Occur in the U.S.?
Here in the United States, it is estimated that the peak of stomach flu season falls between November and April. While there is no guarantee that you will encounter the norovirus during this timeframe, it is still important to take precautions to minimize your risk of getting sick. Wash your hands regularly, avoid close contact with those who show signs of being ill, and clean any areas that may have been exposed to the virus. It is also essential to be careful when preparing meals, and you may want to consider forgoing raw shellfish or any uncooked foods, as they often contain high levels of bacteria that can make you ill.
Common Symptoms of the Norovirus
As mentioned above, symptoms of the norovirus include stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Abdominal cramps as well as general fatigue are also common. Fever is fairly unusual in adults with norovirus, but is fairly common in young children. Furthermore, low-grade fever along with chills and body aches can sometimes be present in those with diagnosed noroviruses. Symptoms of the norovirus usually begin 24 to 48 hours after infection, so it is important to keep an eye out for these signs during the peak of stomach flu season.
When to Seek Medical Advice for a Norovirus Infection
Symptoms of a norovirus infection can be debilitating and may vary from person to person, so to receive proper diagnosis and treatment, consult a medical provider as soon as possible. This is especially true if you have been experiencing symptoms for over 12 hours, or if your symptoms continue to get worse.
By utilizing the preventative measures in this blog, like keeping your hands clean and avoiding contact with people who have recently experienced stomach-related issues, you can reduce your chance of being infected during peak stomach flu months. Do not hesitate to contact Texas Emergency Care Center 281) 238-5039 if you are experiencing symptoms associated with norovirus, and remember, our professionals are available 24/7 for emergency care.
Call (281) 238-5005 to learn more or contact us online.