Ministry of Health Monitors Norovirus Outbreak in U.S., Assures No Major Threat to Belize

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is monitoring an outbreak of norovirus in the United States but says it poses no major threat to Belize. Reports indicate that cases of the virus, which causes symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, have far surpassed those recorded in previous years. This has raised concerns among some Belizeans, given the spread of COVID-19 back in 2020. Dr. Melissa Diaz-Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness, stated that while the numbers are high, a spike in norovirus cases at this time of year is not unusual. She explained that only the symptoms can be managed, as there is no specific treatment for norovirus. She noted that small children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions may experience more severe symptoms.

Dr. Melissa Diaz Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness: “The norovirus is not a new virus. And every year the United States reports increased numbers of norovirus, not just the United States but many cold countries especially during this season report increased numbers of norovirus infections. And norovirus causes, it’s one of the most common cause for diarrhea and vomiting, especially in nursing homes and in the elderly. It spreads rather quickly. And symptoms would usually start a few days after you’ve ingested the virus. The virus spreads just like any other virus. It can spread through the air. It can spread through the vomitus so whatever you vomited or the feces as well and symptoms would usually last a few days. Of course, the very young, our elderly, our immunocompromised persons are at higher risk to suffer more symptoms and worsen symptoms. But with norovirus there is no treatment in terms of something that you can give to stop the virus. So the virus takes its course. But you can, you should of course, give treatments like oral rehydration salts, ensure that persons are drinking regularly to prevent dehydration, bland foods if possible. You can also give Tylenol or paracetamol or other medications like ibuprofen to help to reduce any fever or any pain or body aches that the person may have.”

Dr. Diaz emphasized that the situation is nowhere near the severity of COVID-19 and that Belizeans have no need to panic.

Dr. Melissa Diaz Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness: “With regards to our messages from the Ministry of Health and Wellness at this time, we keep a close watch on the situations that are occurring when it comes to the spread of viruses like norovirus and there are rumors as well circulating with regards to the human methanumavirus in China. We keep close communication with WHO, with PAHO, with CARPHA, with our partners. CDC would be able to inform us if there is a need or any concern that they have and at this time we don’t have any concern. We’re not seeing much higher numbers than we expect for this time of the year. And we monitor this on a regular basis. If we do see any changes or if there’s any need for us to inform the public otherwise then we definitely will. At this time we just try to ensure that we educate the public with regards to how to prevent these diseases from spreading. And like I had mentioned before hand washing and staying away from people who are at risk would be some of the advice that we would give, but there’s no need for any panic to occur at this time in our country with regards to norovirus.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), norovirus sickens approximately 21 million people annually