Outbreaks caused by the notorious “stomach bug” are quite common worldwide, and it remains the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea. While norovirus is known to be highly transmissible through contaminated food and water, recent research studies have highlighted another mode of transmission—aerosols. However, evidence and research on this transmission mode are still limited. Let’s delve deeper into the highly contagious norovirus and explore ways to prevent it.
What is Norovirus?
Often called the ‘stomach bug,’ Norovirus is a contagious virus that can lead to gastroenteritis—an inflammation of the digestive system. Norovirus in Australia is quite common, occurring specifically during the winter season.
What Do We Know More About It?
Gastroenteritis begins with vomiting and diarrhea, primarily affecting children. People may also experience stomachaches, fever, and nausea, along with dehydration due to frequent vomiting and watery diarrhea. The virus typically lasts for 1–3 days, but it may differ for every person.
While norovirus can affect anyone, the elderly, individuals with existing medical conditions, and children are highly susceptible to infection. A study conducted by researchers in Queensland, Australia, at a childcare facility and associated households concluded that children under the age of two are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.
Additionally, there are several strains of norovirus, and since immunity lasts only a few weeks, an individual may contract the virus multiple times in their lifetime.
Moreover, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who consume raw oysters and shellfish are at a greater risk of infection, as these seafood items can harbour the virus.
How Does the Virus Transmit?
Previously, studies suggested that the most common source of norovirus transmission was the ingestion of contaminated food and water. However, recent research indicates that norovirus can also be airborne.
In 2024, a study conducted by five researchers examined aerosol transmission of norovirus. The study found that vomiting-related aerosol transmission is more common than transmission through diarrhea. When an infected person vomits, large amounts of virus particles can be released into the air and become suspended. These particles linger in the indoor environment for hours and settle on surfaces, increasing the risk of infection. Norovirus particles can remain suspended in enclosed spaces for days, making it extremely challenging to control the spread.
As a result, semi-enclosed and enclosed indoor environments such as nursing homes, schools, hospitals, and childcare centres are at high risk of outbreaks. Spaces with poor ventilation and inadequate air circulation are even more vulnerable, as viral particles can remain suspended in the environment for extended periods.
Norovirus Outbreak Prevention Strategies
Given the evidence, everyone needs to take action to prevent the risk of virus transmission. Here are a few strategies to mitigate the risk of airborne exposure in indoor environments:
Improve Airflow and Ventilation
The first and foremost strategy is to improve ventilation and enhance air circulation in indoor spaces. Increased airflow helps dilute the concentration of airborne virus particles and can even remove them. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are highly effective in eliminating suspended airborne viruses. Euromate Pure Air offers a range of air purifiers featuring HEPA filters. Suitable for various spaces, we provide air purifiers for both residential and commercial facilities. Read how COVID-19 is also airborne, but HEPA filters can mitigate the spread of COVID-20.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Wash your hands with clean water and soap for at least 15–20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean towel, especially if you have assisted someone with diarrhea or vomiting.
Close the Flush Lid
When you flush, make sure to close the lid, as this helps reduce the risk of contamination.
Take Action Today!
We now know that norovirus can spread by sharing rooms with an infected person. While research on aerosolized transmission is still ongoing, it is crucial to take preventive measures to avoid outbreaks.
Euromate Pure Air offers a collection of next-generation air purifiers. If you want to prevent norovirus in Australia, choose Euromate Pure Air—our technology is designed to eliminate contaminated particles from indoor spaces. Phone us today!
