Norovirus Outbreak Hyderabad

Norovirus and Cholera Cases Reported in Hyderabad and Other Cities

Many cases of Norovirus have been reported in the Old City of Hyderabad. This virus, the most common cause of gastroenteritis, is causing severe gastroenteritis with acute kidney injury, primarily affecting middle-aged and senior citizens, pregnant women, and adolescents, according to doctors. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration, posing a severe risk of kidney damage, often requiring dialysis. Diabetic individuals are particularly vulnerable to this highly contagious virus, which spreads through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and human contact.

Dr. MD Fawad Ali, a consultant physician at Princess Durru Shehvar Children’s and General Hospital in Purani Haveli, reports that the hospital has been seeing 25-30 patients daily for the past few weeks. Similar numbers are being admitted to Princess Esra Hospital in Shah Ali Banda and other local hospitals. Most Norovirus cases are from areas such as Azampura, Edi Bazar, Purani Haveli, Yakutpura, Old Malakpet, and other localities. Doctors warn that the virus could spread to other areas in Hyderabad if preventive measures are not taken immediately.

Dr. Fawad Ali mentioned that 2-5% of patients presenting with gastroenteritis symptoms at the hospital are undergoing dialysis. On Thursday evening, two young women, aged 19 and 20, were treated in isolation, with one in the intensive care unit (ICU). Both patients had low blood pressure and high creatinine levels, indicating severe dehydration and potential kidney blockage. Symptoms typically appear within 8 to 12 hours of infection, leading to rapid dehydration and weakness due to frequent diarrhea. Current treatments include fluids and medication, but the risk of kidney failure remains high. Contaminated food and drinking water are the primary causes of the virus’s spread in the Old City.

The Food Safety Department has been conducting raids on high-end restaurants and food manufacturers but needs to focus on fast-food centers in the Old City, where food contamination is prevalent. Ensuring clean drinking water is also crucial, especially during the monsoon season and ongoing nala works.

Prevention Measures

Dr. Fawad Ali emphasizes that preventing the spread of Norovirus involves avoiding outside food and maintaining personal hygiene. Improved sanitation in residential areas is also essential. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 2,500 Norovirus outbreaks in the US annually, primarily between November and April. Norovirus is also known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ and the ‘Norwalk virus.’

Cholera Cases in Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam

Dr. Fawad Ali also reported that several cholera cases have been detected in the Old City of Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam. Cholera, a deadly water-borne disease, has not been officially reported by state governments despite positive diagnoses.

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Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is the most common cause of gastroenteritis worldwide and can affect people of all ages.

Key Characteristics of Norovirus:

1. Transmission:
   • Contaminated Food and Water: The virus spreads through consumption of contaminated food or water.
   • Surfaces: Contact with surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus can lead to infection.
   • Person-to-Person: Direct contact with an infected person can also spread the virus.
2. Symptoms:
   • Diarrhea
   • Vomiting
   • Nausea
   • Stomach Pain
   • Fever and Headache (less common)
   • Rapid Dehydration: Particularly dangerous for the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
3. Onset and Duration:
   • Incubation Period: Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure.
   • Duration: Symptoms usually last 1 to 3 days, though some individuals may experience symptoms for longer.
4. Prevention:
   • Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food.
   • Sanitization: Disinfecting contaminated surfaces and washing laundry thoroughly.
   • Food Safety: Properly cooking and handling food, and ensuring safe drinking water.
5. Treatment:
   • Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
   • Rest: Getting adequate rest to support the immune system.
   • Medical Attention: In severe cases, especially with significant dehydration or complications, medical treatment may be necessary.

Norovirus is sometimes referred to as the “winter vomiting bug” due to its prevalence in the colder months and the symptoms it causes. Despite its highly contagious nature, the virus is usually self-limiting and resolves without specific medical treatment.