A highly contagious stomach virus is sweeping through Long Island homes and schools, causing symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea, according to pediatricians and family doctors. While this virus is a common occurrence from November to April, there are concerns that improper monitoring could lead to dangerous dehydration in young children and the elderly.
Identifying the virus as norovirus (https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/data-research/index.html) or another similar virus can be challenging for doctors. Testing is typically reserved for patients requiring hospital treatment. Norovirus is highly contagious and can be contracted through contaminated surfaces, food, or water handled by an infected individual. It is responsible for over 50% of food poisoning cases in the United States, with the CDC estimating 19 to 21 million illnesses and 900 deaths annually, predominantly among those aged 65 and above.
Wastewater monitoring reveals high levels of norovirus across the Northeast (https://data.wastewaterscan.org/?charts=CjMQACABSABaB05vcm9fRzJyCjIwMjYtMDEtMDdyCjIwMjYtMDItMTiKAQY0NTVkZjTAAQE%3D&selectedChartId=455df4).
The best defense against this virus is frequent hand-washing, according to Dr. David Fagan, a pediatrician at Northwell Health. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against norovirus due to its tough, hard coating. Fagan notes that preschoolers and elementary school children are more susceptible than middle schoolers and teens.
Symptoms typically appear rapidly and last one to three days. Dr. Christine Doucet, owner of Patchogue Family Medical Care, advises parents to disinfect surfaces like counters and doorknobs that may be contaminated. Even without a specific diagnosis, the treatment for these symptoms remains the same, according to Dr. Eve Meltzer Krief, who practices at Huntington Village Pediatrics.
Krief emphasizes the importance of fluid intake, especially for babies and young children, recommending electrolyte replacement drinks like Pedialyte. Parents should seek medical advice if children experience persistent vomiting, as medication for nausea can help them retain fluids. Doucet suggests a gradual reintroduction to food, starting with dry, plain items like toast and crackers, after an hour following the last vomiting episode.
Seniors with heart conditions should exercise caution with electrolyte drinks due to their high sugar and sodium content. In such cases, hospitalization and IV fluid rehydration may be necessary. Parents can monitor their child's hydration by checking urine color and frequency, ensuring it is clear and frequent. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is essential.
