Norovirus

The norovirus is the most common cause of upset stomach in the United Kingdom. In 2010, it caused mass outbreaks among passengers on cruise ships.

Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of the virus are nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. In some cases, fever, headaches and general cramping may also occur.

Occurrence

• The United Kingdom's national health service estimates that up to 1 million citizens in the U.K. contract the norovirus annually. The Center for Disease Control reports 21 million cases annually in the United States.

Transmission

• Norovirus is mainly spread through fecal-oral transmission. This means that human waste infected with the virus must enter the system orally to cause infection. There is also strong evidence that suggests that the virus can be transmitted via airborne vomit that is swallowed or contaminates other surfaces.

Treatment

• There is no effective treatment to cure norovirus; the disease must run its course. Treatment combats the dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. In most cases, electrolytes are given orally, but in extreme cases, intravenous fluid replacement may become necessary.