The norovirus, a very contagious stomach bug, has made its way into the Pasadena Evacuation Center in California where housing is being provided for L.A. wildfire evacuees.
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According to the Pasadena Department of Public Health, at least 28 people within the evacuation center have contracted norovirus. The Mayo Clinic reports that symptoms of norovirus include “severe vomiting and diarrhea that start suddenly.”
“They commonly spread through food or water that is contaminated during preparation or through contaminated surfaces,” the Mayo Clinic says.
The virus can easily spread in close quarters, such as evacuation centers. One of the largest outbreaks occurred during the summer of 2023 on several cruise ships. There were reportedly 13 cruise ships with outbreaks. On one ship, 13 percent of the 838 passengers contracted the virus.
“The spread of illness in congregate living situations, including shelters, is unfortunately common given the close quarters and communal spaces,” Pasadena Public Health said.
The residents with symptoms are being separated from those with no symptoms. CNN reported that health officials are “adding more hand washing stations, disinfecting bathrooms more frequently and making sure to use cleansers.”
To prevent the spread of the virus, the CDC recommends washing hands well with soap and water. Apparently, sanitizer “does not work well” against norovirus.
Although the virus is not something anyone wants to contract, symptoms should only last a few days. According to the Mayo Clinic, there isn’t a specific treatment for norovirus, but staying hydrated is important.