5 Ways in which Arizons can help prevent the distribution of norovirus this spring – daily independent

Mikaela Simon

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By Micaela Simon, FNP-C, Aahivs | Be good health/be well family care

There are so many things in Arizona to love spring – outdoor events, magnificent evening hikes and a perfectly perfect time. However, nothing puts a shock absorber of fun faster than a sudden illness.

According to the Arizona Ministry of Health Services, the spread of Norovirus is gaining in the spring and can cause acute gastroenteritis – or inflammation of the stomach and intestines – for 24 to 48 hours.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that often causes outbreaks in schools, jobs and municipal conditions. Hello for health and be a good family care, our goal is not only to treat the symptoms, but also to help them prevent them.

Here are five simple ways to reduce the spread of Norovirus this spring.

Proper hygiene of hands

Good hand washing habits are your best protection against Norovirus. Use soap and warm water, cleaning your hands for at least 20 seconds – especially before eating and cooking and after using the toilet. While the disinfectors of the hands are comfortable, CDC advises that alcohol -based disinfects are not as effective against Norovirus, so soap and water washing is essential.

Handle and prepare food safely

Norovirus can be spread through contaminated food, which makes the safety of food a top priority. Wash the fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking and avoid preparing food for others if you are experiencing symptoms of norovirus or have been ill for the last 48 hours. In addition, the mussels of the chefs – a common medium of norovirus – to an internal temperature of at least 145 ° F (63 ° C) to kill any viruses.

Disinfect the surfaces regularly

Norovirus can survive surfaces for long periods, which makes regular cleaning essential. Disinfect frequently touched areas using bleach -based or hydrochloric disinfectant. Pay special attention to shared spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens and high -touch items, such as the door and light switches.

Isolate symptomatic individuals

If you or someone around you show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or nausea, it is important to stay home and limit contact with others to without symptoms for at least 48 hours. In group conditions such as schools or nursing homes, isolation of symptomatic individuals and the implementation of infection control measures can significantly reduce the risk of foci.

Wash dirty laundry quickly and safely

Norovirus can be spread through contaminated clothing, linen and towels, so it is important to carefully deal with these items. Wear disposable gloves when operating contaminated washing. Wash immediately with warm water and detergent, then dry them on the highest thermal adjustment. To prevent additional contamination, consider adding bleach or laundry disinfectant to washing.

By accepting these preventative measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of Norovirus outbreaks and protect the health and well -being of our valley community.

Editor’s Note: Editor’s Note: Mikaela Simon, FNP-C, Aahivs, is a co-owner and practicing nurse in Be a good health in Phoenix and Be a good family care In Tempe. Please send your comments to [email protected]S We are committed to posting a wide variety of readers’ opinions as long as they meet with our Citizenship guidelinesS