More and more people are turning to food delivery symptoms to acquire nourishment during this pandemic. However, there is currently a norovirus outbreak associated with delivered food.

About Norovirus

Norovirus infection occurs most frequently in closed and crowded environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers, schools, and cruise ships. Because there are multiple strains of the virus and the fact that the body does not produce a strong immune response to the infection, experts believe it is possible to contract norovirus infection more than once in a lifetime.

Norovirus Tied to Food Delivery

A recent study showed that those who eat delivery food are almost three times more likely to develop norovirus. There was a total of 379 samples. These included rectal swab samples of food handlers in restaurants. Other swabs were environmental and in the restroom.  Of 169 rectal swabs, 10 were positive for norovirus, and two of 11 environmental swab samples were positive. All samples were negative for other viruses and bacteria. Poor handling practices were the number one reason the norovirus is spreading.

Norovirus Symptoms

Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Symptoms last one to three days and most people recover completely without treatment. However, for some people such as infants, older adults and people with an underlying disease the vomiting and diarrhea can be severely dehydrating and require medical attention.
Signs and symptoms of norovirus infection include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Watery or loose diarrhea
• Malaise
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle pain

An infected person can still be contagious for up to two weeks or even several months. Some people with norovirus infection may show no signs or symptoms. However, they are still contagious and can spread the virus to others.

Complications

For most people, norovirus infection clears up within a few days and isn’t life-threatening. However, children and older adults with compromised immune systems with a norovirus infection can develop severe dehydration, malnutrition, and even death. Parents should be aware that a child with a norovirus infection may cry with few or no tears due to dehydration. They may also be unusually sleepy or fussy.
Warning signs of dehydration include:

• Fatigue
• Dry mouth and throat
• Listlessness
• Dizziness
• Decreased urine output

Help after a Norovirus Infection

When you experience side effects from severe food poisoning, it can have devastating effects on your entire life. A verdict or settlement could also provide compensation for your injuries and damages. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is currently accepting Norovirus infection injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know was injured by an outbreak of Norovirus poisoning, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation.