Bodywork: How to avoid stomach viruses

Adam's journal

Over the holidays, one of my co-workers' children came down with a stomach virus that left him feeling miserable. A few days later, my co-worker got sick, too.

He's back in the office and feeling better now. But what can my colleagues and I do to ensure we don't get this — or any other — nasty stomach bug?

Dr. Prescott prescribes

The majority of stomach illnesses in this country are caused by a bug called norovirus. It's particularly prevalent during the winter months, when people gather in enclosed spaces with little fresh air circulating.

The good news about norovirus is that its symptoms are mercifully short-lived: Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea typically last no more than 48 hours. The bad news? Well, there's plenty.

First, people can continue to “shed” norovirus for up to 10 days after being exposed. What's more, it takes only about 20 viral particles — an infinitesimal amount — to make you sick. Plus, those viral particles are extremely hearty; they can survive on surfaces for more than a month.

To avoid infection, keep your hands away from your mouth, nose and eyes. All it takes is one inadvertent transfer of viral particles lurking on a desktop to get into your body, and you're done.

If you're around someone who is or has been sick, bleach is your best bet for killing any norovirus that lingers on surfaces. Unfortunately, most household wipes and cleaners aren't effective.

At this time of year, and especially when it comes to norovirus, you can't wash your hands enough. Hand sanitizers won't kill norovirus, so use hot water and soap. When you wash, scrub fingertips and nail beds, as viruses hunker down there.

If someone in your home comes down with the virus, do your best to quarantine that person. Clean everything with bleach, letting it sit on surfaces for at least five minutes. Be sure to wash everything the person comes in contact with in hot water.

You may still get sick. If that happens, there's not much you can do to lessen symptoms. But be sure to stay hydrated — and stay as far away from others as you can. Because this miserable virus loves company.

Prescott, a physician and medical researcher, is president of the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. Cohen is a marathoner and OMRF's senior vice president and general counsel.