Secretary of Health confirms that norovirus caused an outbreak of the virus on the coast of São Paulo

After a virus outbreak that has occurred on the coast of São Paulo since New Year's Eve, samples of human feces were collected in the cities of Guarujá and Praia Grande, where the number of infected people is growing. The Adolfo Lutz Institute laboratory was responsible for the analyzes and the São Paulo State Secretary of Health confirmed that the outbreak was caused by norovirus.

Regiane de Paula, health coordinator, said she was investigating the cause of the contamination in partnership with Cetesb, Sabesp and the municipalities of Baixada Santista. To date, there have been more than 7,000 confirmed cases in cities in the coastal region. The virus was suspected to come from clandestine sewers that carry dirt into the sea, contaminating those who come into contact with the water.

Norovirus causes gastroenteritis

The disease gastroenteritis caused by norovirus causes acute inflammation in the stomach and intestine of the infected individual. Transmission occurs from person to person and there may be outbreaks involving large groups of infected people, as happened on the beaches of São Paulo. The diagnosis is carried out by a clinical doctor.

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_{man with severe stomach pain (Photo: reproduction/Johnce/Embed Getty Images)}

Contamination, symptoms and treatment

Norovirus is transmitted through the mouth through contaminated food and drink. Recovery happens naturally and can take one to three days, however, depending on the degree and type of infection, it can last up to 14 days. Cases of hospitalization and death are rare. Possible symptoms after contamination are:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Tiredness
• Pain in arms and legs

When treating the disease caused by norovirus, you need plenty of hydration and rest. In some cases, intravenous treatment may be necessary, that is, taking serum into a vein. Self-medication is not recommended and in some cases it can cause damage and worsen the patient's condition.

To prevent this, health professionals recommend: washing your hands before preparing and eating something, not eating undercooked food or food of questionable origin, keeping food and drinks well refrigerated and, in cases of rain on the beaches, avoiding going into the sea in the following 24 hours.

Featured Photo: people walking on the beach (reproduction/NurPhoto/Embed Getty Images)