Norovirus Nuisance: A Mom’s Survival Guide – Whew mamas! It’s prime Norovirus season and we’re here to make sure your family doesn’t have the vomiting and diarrheal episodes you’ve likely seen in the movie, Bridesmaids. Find out exactly how to prevent the nasties right here on Newsymom!
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
Mamas of Tuscarawas County, gather ’round, as we’re about to embark on a journey through the wild world of norovirus—a tiny, yet terrifying, virus that can wreak havoc faster than you can say, “Where’s the hand sanitizer?” Picture this: you’re minding your own business, trying to juggle the million tasks that come with being a supermom, when suddenly, BAM! Norovirus strikes, turning your household into a scene straight out of a disaster movie. But fear not, dear moms, for we come bearing both wisdom and wit to help you navigate this gastrointestinal rollercoaster, complements of the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
What’s Norovirus and How Does It Affect Me?
First things first, let’s talk about what norovirus is and why it’s the ultimate party crasher. This pesky virus is like the uninvited guest who shows up to your soirée and promptly proceeds to make a mess of everything. It’s a highly contagious virus that takes joy in causing chaos in your digestive system, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Basically, it’s the stomach flu’s evil twin, and nobody wants to deal with that kind of double trouble, especially when you’ve got a household to run.
Alright Sis, How Do We Prevent Norovirus From Hitting?
Now, onto the good stuff—how to prevent norovirus from crashing your party in the first place. Think of it as your mom superpower: the ability to fend off germs like a boss.
Here’s what you’ve gotta do:
- Wash those hands like you’re prepping for surgery, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling food.
- Make sure you’re cooking food thoroughly and storing it properly to keep those nasty bugs at bay.
- Oh, and don’t forget to disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and, let’s be real, anything else your little ones can get their grubby hands on. Trust me, a little prevention goes a long way when it comes to dodging the dreaded norovirus.
Get More Viral Survival Help From the Tuscarawas County Health Department:
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine that prevents norovirus, but there are vaccines to prevent other serious illnesses like measles, chicken pox, whopping cough, flu, and more. The Tuscarawas County Health Department can help keep you and your family up to date on vaccines! That’s right, ladies, by making an appointment and getting updated vaccines, you’re not only protecting yourself but also your entire family from the wrath of viruses and other pesky pathogens lurking in the shadows. You can give them a call at (330) 343-5555 x.1740 or 1810 to make an appointment!
So, what are you waiting for? Roll up those sleeves, wash your hands, and head on over to the health department to arm yourselves with the ultimate weapon against all kinds of ickies this season. After all, ain’t nobody got time for sickness when there are playgrounds to conquer and playdates to schedule!
Melissa Klatt
Reporting