Suspected Norovirus Circulating In Ocean County: Report

Norovirus is suspected to be the cause of gastrointestinal illnesses that are causing more students to miss school recently, according to a report.

The Asbury Park Press reported that the Ocean County Health Department has confirmed there has been some increase in illnesses lately that are known or suspected to be caused by norovirus.

Norovirus is very contagious and can cause stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

“You can get norovirus from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces,” the CDC website said.

It is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis in the United States. Each year, it causes 19-21 million illnesses and contributes to 56,000-71,000 hospitalizations and 570-800 deaths. Norovirus is also the most common cause of foodborne-disease outbreaks in the United States. It can be dangerous for very young children, for senior citizens and those with a compromised immune system.

Leslie Terjesen, spokeswoman for the Ocean County Health Department, said the increase was a normal seasonally related increase in norovirus activity.

The best way to prevent the spread of norovirus is by proper handwashing and by cooking food, particularly seafood, thoroughly, the CDC website says.

“Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used in addition to hand washing. But, they should not be used as a substitute for washing with soap and water,” the website says.

“Carefully wash fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating them. Cook oysters and other shellfish thoroughly before eating them. Be aware that noroviruses are relatively resistant. They can survive temperatures as high as 140°F and quick steaming processes that are often used for cooking shellfish,” the website says.