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Kolkata Hospitals Battle Norovirus Outbreak
3 Oct
Summary
- Norovirus cases reported across at least three Kolkata hospitals.
- Patients exhibit severe symptoms including dehydration and vomiting.
- Outbreaks typically occur in winter, spreading via food.
Norovirus, a highly contagious virus causing severe gastroenteritis, has been detected in at least three hospitals in Kolkata. These medical facilities have admitted patients experiencing significant symptoms, including severe dehydration, vomiting, and acute abdominal cramps. Physicians have indicated that symptoms typically manifest rapidly, appearing within 12 to 48 hours post-infection.
Manipal Hospital Dhakuria reported admitting four patients over the past two weeks, with two requiring intensive care due to severe dehydration and vomiting, and even kidney complications. BP Poddar Hospital saw three admissions and treated 47 outpatients with similar symptoms in the last fortnight. Peerless Hospital has treated 12 Norovirus patients, including children, with some cases requiring hospitalisation and others managed through outpatient services.
This surge in Norovirus cases is particularly concerning as the virus is known to spread through contaminated food and is often associated with winter outbreaks. Healthcare professionals are managing the influx by providing necessary treatments, including anti-secretory medications and intravenous fluids, to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications like dehydration and renal issues, especially in vulnerable patients.
