How long does the norovirus last
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Duration of Norovirus Infection
Acute Norovirus Infection Duration
Typical Duration in Healthy Individuals
Norovirus, a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, typically results in symptoms that last between 24 to 48 hours in healthy individuals. The infection is generally self-limiting, with most people recovering within 2 to 3 days 1410.
Prolonged Norovirus Shedding
Extended Shedding in Immunocompetent Hosts
While the acute phase of norovirus infection is short-lived, virus shedding can continue for a longer period. In immunocompetent individuals, norovirus shedding can last from one week to one month after the onset of symptoms . In some cases, shedding has been observed for up to three months .
Shedding in Infants and Young Children
In young children, particularly those under 2 years of age, the duration of norovirus shedding can be significantly longer. Studies have shown that infants can shed the virus for a median duration of 16 days, with some cases extending up to 47 days . This prolonged shedding is more common in younger children compared to older children .
Chronic Norovirus Infection in Immunocompromised Hosts
Duration in Immunocompromised Individuals
In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems or solid organ transplant recipients, norovirus infection can become chronic. These individuals can experience prolonged symptoms and virus shedding that can last from several weeks to years 189. For instance, chronic infections in pediatric immunocompromised patients have been documented to last from 37 days to over 418 days . Similarly, solid organ transplant recipients have shown a median shedding period of 218 days, with some cases extending up to 1164 days .
Implications of Chronic Shedding
Chronic shedding in immunocompromised hosts not only complicates clinical management but also poses a risk for ongoing transmission of the virus. The continuous shedding of infectious virus highlights the need for stringent isolation precautions to prevent nosocomial infections and transmission to other vulnerable populations 89.
Environmental Persistence of Norovirus
Norovirus in Water
Norovirus can remain infectious in environmental settings for extended periods. For example, Norwalk virus, a prototype human norovirus, has been shown to remain infectious in groundwater for at least 61 days and detectable for over three years . This environmental persistence underscores the importance of effective water treatment and sanitation practices to prevent outbreaks.
Conclusion
The duration of norovirus infection varies significantly depending on the host's immune status. While healthy individuals typically recover within a few days, immunocompromised individuals and young children can experience prolonged virus shedding, which can last from weeks to years. Understanding these variations is crucial for managing infections and preventing transmission, especially in vulnerable populations.
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