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Canada: Norovirus outbreaks in Canada
In Brief
Several outbreaks of norovirus have been reported in the Canadian province of British Columbia, most cases have occurred in the city of Vancouver. Noroviruses are highly
contagious. Most infections occur as a result of ingesting contaminated food or water, or contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces. Usual symptoms are sudden vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. Prevention is through hygiene measures and
careful selection of food and water.
Advice
Travellers to Canada are advised to pay strict attention to personal hygiene.
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Wash hands frequently, using soap and water, or use a hand sanitizer. Be sure to wash hands before eating, after using the bathroom, and before touching your face (eyes/nose/mouth).
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Disinfect any potentially contaminated surfaces or objects. Use a bleach-based household cleaner.
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If you or members of your household are ill
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Try to keep those with symptoms away from others until the illness has subsided for at least 48 hours.
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Do not allow them to prepare food for other people.
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It is important to drink plenty of fluids. This is particularly true for young children and the elderly, as they are more prone to dehydration than adults. Consider adding rehydration salts to
water.
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If symptoms persist for more than three days, or if dehydration is more than mild, seek medical attention.
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Do not swim until two weeks after diarrhoeal symptoms subside.
More Detail
At least 25 outbreaks have been reported in British Columbia in the last month, almost double the number reported during the same period last year. Media sources have reported
it as the worst outbreak since 2006 affecting hospitals, day care centres and the community. A new strain of the Norovirus which was first discovered in Sydney, Australia is said to be responsible for the outbreaks. Hospitals have been quarantined. People
suffering from the symptoms are advised to avoid visiting "closed environments" such as hospitals and schools as outbreaks can occur easily in such settings. Authorities have also highlighted the need to pay attention to hygiene including regular hand washing
in an attempt to reduce the spread of infection in the community.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus infections can cause a range of symptoms. The "vomiting bug" is characterised by sudden onset of nausea, vomiting (often violent) and diarrhoea, within 1-2
days of infection. Illness is frequently accompanied by a raised temperature (fever), headaches, stomach cramps and muscular aches.
These viruses are highly contagious and are transmitted through the faecal-oral route. Transmission can occur directly from person-to-person, via contaminated food or water, and
through surfaces contaminated by droplets of vomit from an infected person. Outbreaks may also occur when water sources, such as lakes or wells, are contaminated.
Most people suffer a mild illness and usually recover on their own within 1 to 2 days without specific treatment. Treatment is directed to replace lost fluids and maintain adequate
hydration. Antidiarrhoeals are not recommended, as they may prolong the illness. Young children and the elderly are more at risk for dehydration and may require hospitalisation.
No vaccine is available. The only way to prevent infection is through the observation of good personal hygiene and selection of safe food and water.
For more information:
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See "Noroviruses" in the "Diseases and Prevention" dropdown on International SOS Country Guides
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See the Travel Advice article "Selecting Safe Food and Water" on the International SOS Country Guides
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Contact any International SOS assistance centre.
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