Norovirus Outbreak Alert: California To North Dakota – What You Need To Know

Another virus is emerging in the nation, and the CDC is warning that the blight that has been hitting California may be making it's way to North Dakota.

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What virus are we facing?

U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials have warned North Dakotans to be on the lookout for the norovirus, which can cause unpleasant symptoms. But first, we must determine: what was the root cause of this epidemic?

According to the FDA, the viral epidemic started with oysters bought by "restaurants and food retailers in California that have recently purchased oysters harvested in Baja California, Mexico from Acuacultura Integral De Baja California SA de CV - MX 4 SS."

Worryingly, this virus is both contagious and problematic. The situation can get worse if some people decide to leave as soon as the weather gets warmer.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, norovirus-contaminated food "may look, smell, and taste normal."

What to watch out for...

Norovirus could be to blame if you've been afflicted with these symptoms. Get medical help immediately if you suspect you have norovirus and have a damaged immune system.

Norovirus Symptoms North Dakotans Need To Beware Of

An outbreak of Norovirus might occur in North Dakota, according to the CDC. Things to watch out for are as follows:

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Vomiting

According to the CDC, norovirus is not related to the flu.

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Stomach pain

According to the CDC, "norovirus causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines. This is called acute gastroenteritis."

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Nausea

The CDC says "a person usually develops symptoms 12 to 48 hours after being exposed to norovirus."

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Fever

According to the CDC, "most people with norovirus illness get better within 1 to 3 days, but they can still spread the virus for a few days after."

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Diarrhea

Dehydration may be the cause of several symptoms, according to the CDC:

You may experience severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea multiple times each day if you are sick with norovirus. Particularly at risk are younger children, the elderly, and those with preexisting medical conditions, who may experience dehydration as a result. Some symptoms of dehydration in children include excessive drowsiness or fussiness, as well as few or no tears when crying.

Checking with your favorite seafood restaurant to be sure they didn't obtain their oysters from Baja California, Mexico, can be a good idea if you're a great seafood enthusiast and eat oysters often.

Verify that you haven't contracted COVID-19 if you're not sure you're suffering from norovirus but have other symptoms.