Personal Injury Law

Norovirus Is Having Its Way With Massachusetts

By Marler Clark LLP

More than 60 Massachusetts hospitals and long-term care facilities this winter reported outbreaks of illnesses likely caused by norovirus, according to the state's Department of Public Health.

State health officials worked with each of the facilities to ensure proper infection control procedures were followed.  Since January, eight Massachusetts food-handling facilities and three schools or day cares have also been stricken by outbreaks of gastrointestinal sickness, according to figures from the DPH. 

Noroviruses are a group of particularly strong viruses that cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, according to DPH officials.

The viruses are spread easily through food and by direct physical contact. The illness can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, like countertops and door knobs.

A norovirus infection usually results in an unpleasant, short-term illness, but can be more serious for infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

Full post as published by Norovirus Blog on February 24, 2009 (boomark / email).