Norovirus reported in Kerala; 2 children under treatment

The norovirus infection case has been reported in Ernakulam. The health department has beefed up preventive-awareness activities in wake of this. Meanwhile, the Kerala government warned the people of the potential gravity of the threat but maintained that there was no need to panic.

During earlier hours of the day, Class 1 and 2 of a school at Kakkanad near here were found infected and three children are now under treatment. A senior medical officer of the district said 62 students and a few parents of the school exhibited symptoms following which two samples were sent for testing at the State Public Laboratory.

As per WHO, norovirus is a viral illness that is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis globally with symptoms including acute onset diarrhoea and vomiting. Norovirus can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, the Health Department said, adding that the initial symptoms are vomiting and/or diarrhoea, and head and body aches.