[Intime News]
Greece is witnessing a sharp rise in norovirus infections, with significant surges in viral gastroenteritis cases.
According to data from the National Public Health Organization (EODY), between May and October 2024, there were seven outbreaks of gastroenteritis linked to norovirus, compared to the usual one or two per year in previous years.
Norovirus causes symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, nausea and sometimes fever. While most people recover without complications, infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals may face more severe symptoms.
The virus spreads easily from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces or food and water.
EODY advises frequent and thorough hand washing, disinfection of surfaces with chlorine-based solutions, and careful food handling to prevent transmission.
Infected individuals should avoid preparing food and limit close contact with others, as they remain contagious for up to 48 hours after symptoms subside.
The incubation period for norovirus ranges from 12 to 48 hours, and individuals are most contagious while symptomatic, but can also spread the virus before symptoms appear.