The number of virus cases among beachgoers increased at the beginning of the year
The State Department of Health (SES) of São Paulo confirmed on Wednesday 8th the presence of norovirus in samples collected by Adolfo Lutz Institute (IAL) a Baixada Santista. Thousands of cases of the virus were recorded in the region earlier this year.
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The IAL, the French reference laboratory in the state, collected human stool samples in Guarujá and Praia Grande. According to the secretariat, norovirus lasts on average three days.
“We presented to the secretaries and technical teams the flow of information, the collection of samples and the treatments to be adopted in light of the situation,” said Regiane de Paula, health coordinator of the Coordination for Disease Control (CCD/SES).
However, the origin of the epidemic has not yet been confirmed. “We are waiting for the analysis of the samples to be completed to close the cases,” he added. The cases are also monitored by the State Environmental Company of São Paulo (Cetesb) and by Sabesp.
The SES warned that it is necessary to notify virus cases and orient the population on preventive care to avoid water- and food-borne diseases (DTA).
Among the main symptoms of DTAs are: diarrhea, general malaise, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever. The main causative agents of the disease are enteroviruses, in particular rotavirus and norovirus.
Furthermore, swimmers should pay attention to signs relating to the quality of sea water. Green flag beaches are considered suitable for swimming; Those with a red flag should be avoided.
Guidelines to avoid contamination
- Do not enter the beach water if classified as unsafe by Cetesb and avoid swimming in the sea 24 hours after rain;
- Avoid undercooked foods;
- Keep food well refrigerated, paying particular attention to the temperatures of refrigerators and supermarket refrigerators where food is stored;
- Take your snacks with you when traveling, stored properly;
- Respect the hygiene of canteens and kiosks;
- Wash your hands before eating or preparing food;
- Always drink filtered water;
- In case of diarrhea, intensify hydration and, if necessary, consult a doctor.
Treatment
According to SES, the main treatment is hydration. In more severe cases, intravenous hydration may be necessary. Hospitalization, in general, is very rare. Children and the elderly require special attention.
Very frequent and liquid bowel movements, difficulty in hydration with vomiting that does not stop, dryness of the skin and mouth, difficulty urinating are symptoms to be aware of and which indicate that it is necessary to consult a doctor.
The Department of Health also emphasizes that no medication should be taken without medical knowledge and advice.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
