Kerala: Kerala state government on Sunday, confirmed two cases of the ‘highly-contagious’ Norovirus in two children. According to the state health department, precautionary measures have been taken as the virus is believed to spread through contaminated water and food. Kerala health minister Veena George urged people to maintain hygiene. “Norovirus infection has been detected in two children and their health condition is stable. There is no need to be concerned at the moment but everyone should remain careful and maintain cleanliness,” she was quoted as saying by news agency.
The two infected are identified as Primary school children. The Education Minister in a meeting on the incident has directed officials to take steps in maintaining mid day meal hygiene.
Norovirus is highly contagious and the primary route is oral-faecal.Disease outbreaks typically occur aboard cruise ships, in nursing homes, dormitories, and other closed spaces.
The initial symptoms of Norovirus are vomiting and/or diarrhoea, which appear two days after incubation. Patients also feel nauseous, and suffer from abdominal pain, fever, headaches and body aches. In extreme cases, loss of fluids could lead to dehydration.