Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines). Its survival depends on the environment and conditions:
Norovirus Preparedness Kit: What to Have on Hand
Stocking up on essential items before you or someone in your household gets sick can help manage symptoms and prevent the virus from spreading. Here’s what to include:
1. Cleaning and Disinfecting Supplies
- Bleach-based cleaner or household bleach (to make a disinfecting solution).
- Disposable gloves for cleaning contaminated areas.
- Paper towels and disposable cleaning cloths.
- Trash bags for waste disposal.
- Hand soap (liquid or bar).
- Disinfectant wipes effective against norovirus.
2. Personal Hygiene Items
- Handwashing soap (preferably antibacterial).
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 70% alcohol) for backup use.
- Disposable masks (to prevent accidental transmission during cleaning).
- Tissues for managing symptoms like sneezing or coughing.
3. Hydration and Nutrition
- Oral rehydration solutions (like Pedialyte or electrolyte powders).
- Bottled water or a safe water source.
- Easy-to-digest foods like crackers, bananas, or plain rice.
4. Comfort and Recovery Items
- Anti-nausea medications (consult a doctor for recommendations).
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen) to manage fever or aches.
- Vomit bags or disposable containers.
- Extra bed linens and towels for quick replacements.
5. Laundry Supplies
- Heavy-duty detergent for washing contaminated clothes and linens.
- Disposable bags for transporting soiled laundry to the washing machine.
6. Emergency Contact Information
- Contact information for your healthcare provider.
- Local poison control or emergency numbers in case of complications.
Having these items readily available can help you act quickly, reduce the spread of norovirus, and ensure a smoother recovery process for everyone in your home.
