_edited_edited.jpg)
Norovirus: A Growing Concern in Canada
Ever been caught off guard by nausea, throwing up, or diarrhea that just hits out of the blue? You're definitely not the only one. These annoying symptoms are often thanks to norovirus, a super common cause of food poisoning and stomach bugs worldwide. This pesky virus can really mess up your plans, but don't worry—with some know-how and a few preventive measures, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It's notorious for causing outbreaks in places where people are gathered together, such as schools, hospitals, and cruise ships. And unfortunately, it's not just a seasonal annoyance. Right now, cases are higher than usual in Canada, especially as we enter the colder fall and winter months. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), recent reports show that norovirus cases are being reported at rates higher than the five-year average from 2019 to 2023.
This increase in cases has been observed across several provinces, including Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia. However, PHAC cautions that these numbers should be interpreted carefully. The COVID-19 pandemic threw off the tracking of illnesses like norovirus, leaving us with a skewed five-year average during that period. So, yes, the current numbers may seem unusually high, but that’s largely because the past few years were a data anomaly.
How Does Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus infections are highly contagious, spreading quickly from person to person, especially in high-risk environments. The virus is most contagious when symptoms are at their peak, but viral shedding can continue even after symptoms subside, making it easier for people to unknowingly pass it on to others.
Key Facts About Transmission
Tiny viral load: It takes fewer than 100 viral particles to infect someone.
Asymptomatic spread: People who feel fine but are shedding the virus can still spread it to others for weeks.
How Does Norovirus Spread?
Direct contact: Person-to-person transmission occurs when the virus is spread through the fecal-oral route.
Indirect contact: You can get infected by touching contaminated surfaces or eating contaminated food.
Aerosolized vomit: In rare cases, the virus can even be transmitted through particles in the air, particularly if someone vomits nearby.
Symptoms of Norovirus Infection
If you’ve been exposed to norovirus, the symptoms usually hit fast and hard, often beginning within 12 to 72 hours of exposure. The infection can be especially difficult to deal with for the very young, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Primary Symptoms:
Nausea
Vomiting (more common in children)
Diarrhea (more common in adults)
Stomach cramps
Other Possible Symptoms:
Body aches
Headaches
Low-grade fever
Severe Cases:
While most healthy individuals will recover within a few days, norovirus can be more dangerous for certain groups. If you're elderly, very young, or immunocompromised, you might experience a longer illness or complications like:
Severe dehydration
Neurological issues like convulsions in children
Prolonged symptoms that can persist even after the stomach bug clears up
Prevention: How to Stay Safe from Norovirus
The best defense against norovirus is being proactive. It’s all about minimizing your chances of exposure. Here are the most important steps to stay safe:
Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially after using the restroom and before preparing or eating food. (Alcohol-based hand sanitizers don’t cut it when it comes to norovirus.)
Disinfect surfaces that may have been exposed to the virus, especially in shared spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Use bleach-based cleaners to kill the virus effectively.
Avoid handling food if you're feeling sick or have recently recovered from a norovirus infection.
Cook shellfish thoroughly, and wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.
Practice good hygiene in daycare centers, nursing homes, and other places where outbreaks are more common.
Treatment: What to Do If You Catch Norovirus
There is no antiviral medication for norovirus, so treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications like dehydration.
Rehydrate with plenty of fluids such as water or electrolyte solutions like Pedialyte. Avoid sugary drinks as they can worsen dehydration.
Eat light: Once you're able to keep liquids down, gradually reintroduce bland foods such as crackers, rice, or bananas.
Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids. If you’re unable to stay hydrated, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Most people recover within 48 to 72 hours. However, if you have symptoms that persist or worsen, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.
How Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton Can Help
At Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton, we are here to help you stay on top of your health, especially during the colder months when norovirus is more likely to spread. If you suspect you’ve caught norovirus, or if you just want more information on managing symptoms, our expert pharmacists are available to guide you through it.
Why Pharmacist Prescribing Is Important for Norovirus Management
Pharmacists are more than just medication dispensers—they are accessible healthcare professionals who can provide expert advice and prescribe medications to help manage norovirus symptoms, so you can feel better faster.
Immediate Access to Expert Care—No Appointment Needed You don’t need to wait for an appointment to speak with a pharmacist. Whether you’re dealing with norovirus symptoms or any other minor ailment, a pharmacist can provide quick advice and recommend treatments right on the spot. No long wait times, no stress.
Personalized Care and Education—Care That’s Tailored to You Pharmacists don’t just hand out prescriptions—they take the time to explain how to use them correctly and discuss potential side effects. They’ll ensure you understand how to manage your symptoms, and they can give you advice on adjusting your daily routine to help your body recover faster.
Convenience and Accessibility—Get Help When You Need It Pharmacies have extended hours and don’t require appointments, making it easy to get the care you need on your schedule. At Whole Health Pharmacy Edmonton, we provide quick, personalized care so you don’t have to wait in long lines at the doctor’s office or ER. Our pharmacists are here to assess your symptoms, recommend the right treatments, and help you recover efficiently.
You can book a consultation with us easily through our website, or simply walk in to speak with one of our pharmacists. We're here to help you with over-the-counter treatments, advice on rehydration, and how to manage your symptoms effectively.
Stay ahead of norovirus this season—get the help you need to protect yourself and your loved ones today!
Resources
Public Health Agency of Canada: Norovirus and You
תגובות