What can destroy norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It’s often referred to as the stomach flu, although it’s not related to influenza. Norovirus can be challenging to eliminate because it’s resistant to many common disinfectants and can survive in the environment for long periods.

One of the most effective ways to destroy norovirus is through thorough handwashing with soap and water. Hand sanitizers, while useful in many situations, are not effective against norovirus. Washing your hands often, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers, before eating or preparing food, and before giving yourself or someone else medicine, can help prevent the spread of norovirus.

Another effective method to destroy norovirus is by using bleach. A chlorine bleach solution with a concentration of 1,000 to 5,000 ppm (5 to 25 tablespoons of household bleach per gallon of water) can be used to disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with norovirus. It’s important to wear rubber or disposable gloves and to leave the bleach disinfectant on the affected area for at least five minutes.

In addition to handwashing and disinfecting surfaces, it’s also important to handle and prepare food safely. Noroviruses are relatively resistant to heat and can survive temperatures as high as 145°F. Therefore, it’s crucial to wash fruits and vegetables well and to cook shellfish thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Lastly, if you or a family member is sick with norovirus, it’s important to avoid preparing food for others or providing healthcare for at least two days after symptoms stop. This can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

In conclusion, while norovirus is a tough virus to eliminate, thorough handwashing, using bleach to disinfect surfaces, and safe food handling can effectively destroy the virus and prevent its spread.