With doctors seeing up to 100 cases each day, Norovirus has officially taken hold of Greater Hyderabad city leaving healthcare professionals grappling with the sudden outbreak. The old city has been particularly hit with many areas reporting a significant rise in number of cases daily, unlike the previous years when only a few cases were reported in the summer and monsoon months.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal illness, commonly referred to as the "stomach flu." It is the leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide and affects people of all ages.
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and replacing lost fluids. Most people recover within 1-3 days without serious complications. However, Noro virus can lead to severe dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems.
Alert in Hyderabad Old city
The areas most affected by the Norovirus outbreak in Hyderabad include Dabeerpura, Yakutpura, Purani Haveli, Moghalpura, Malakpet, and Old Malakpet.
Doctors are seeing up to 100 cases of Norovirus per day, with some cases requiring ventilator support. The hospital has been witnessing an inflow of anywhere between 25-30 patients every day for the past couple of weeks.
Reasons for rapid spread
Large-scale water contamination: Norovirus is spreading rapidly in Hyderabad, with the Old City being the most affected area. The outbreak is suspected to be caused by large-scale water contamination.
Symptoms and treatment: The symptoms of Norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and replacing lost fluids, and most people recover within 1-3 days.
Prevention of virus spread: Norovirus can be prevented by practicing strict hygiene measures, such as frequent hand-washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, disinfecting surfaces regularly, and ensuring food safety.
Outbreaks often occur in -
Healthcare facilities
Schools & Educational institutions
Public transports & Cruise ships
Hotels & Restaurants
Food establishments
Offices
Public places
Symptoms of Noro virus infection -
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Stomach cramps
Fever
Headache
Fatigue
Norovirus is highly contagious -
Close contact with an infected person
Consuming contaminated food or water
Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting hands in mouth
Prevention measures -
Frequent hand-washing
Proper food handling and preparation
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
Avoiding close contact with infected individuals