| Noroviruses (Norwalk-like viruses) and Drinking Water from Private Wells
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(91 KB/2 pages) What are noroviruses (Norwalk-like viruses)?
Norovirus is the new official
name for a group of viruses described as “Norwalk-like viruses” (NLV).
Noroviruses cause the “stomach flu,” or gastroenteritis, and have been associated
with recent outbreaks on cruise ships and in communities, camps, schools,
institutions, and families.
How can I become infected
with noroviruses?
Norovirus infection is usually
spread from person to person. You can become sick after accidentally eating
or drinking something contaminated with the feces of a norovirus-infected
person. Eating contaminated food is the most common and efficient means
of transmission, but noroviruses can also be transmitted through water and
by direct person-to-person contact.
Where
and how do noroviruses get into drinking water?
Noroviruses are found in every part of the United States and throughout
the world. Noroviruses may be found in water sources such as private
wells that have been contaminated with the feces from infected humans.
Waste can enter the water through various ways, such as sewage overflows
or sewage systems that are not working properly.
What are the symptoms
of norovirus infections?
The most common symptoms
of norovirus infections include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal
cramps. Headache and low-grade fever may also occur. Symptoms usually
appear within 1 to 2 days after exposure. You will usually recover within
2-3 days without serious or long-term health effects.
What should I do if I
think I have a norovirus infection?
See your health care provider
to discuss your concerns.
How is a norovirus infection
diagnosed?
Laboratory tests are needed
to find out if noroviruses are the cause of illness. These tests will identify
the virus in the stools of an infected person. Sometimes these tests are
not done unless the laboratory is instructed specifically to look for the
organism. Many laboratories are not equipped to test for noroviruses, so
a diagnosis is often based on the combination of symptoms and the short
time of illness.
What is the treatment for a norovirus infection?
There is no specific treatment available.
You should drink plenty of fluids as long as the diarrhea lasts. Consult
with your health care provider.
How
do I remove noroviruses from my drinking water?
Heating water at a full
boil for 1 minute (3 minutes if you live in a high altitude) will kill or
inactivate noroviruses. Water should then be stored in a clean container
with a lid and refrigerated.
Because
of the small size of the virus, using a point-of-use filter will not
remove it from your water.
You may also disinfect your well. Note that noroviruses
are moderately resistant to chlorine, so you should contact your local health
department for recommended procedures. Remember to have your well
water tested periodically after disinfection to make sure the problem does
not happen again.
Revised Summer 2003
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