The virus is characterized by rapid spread and requires rigorous health measures to be contained
Daniel Particelli
November 14th – 4.40pm – MILAN
A new health alarm comes from the United Kingdom linked to the unusually high spread of infections from the so-called Kawasaki Norovirusa new strain of norovirus called GII.17 and responsible, in recent weeks, for 70% of all virus cases recorded in the United Kingdom and cause of over 90% of gastroenteritis non-bacterial throughout the UK.
What is Kawasaki Norovirus
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Il Norovirus Kawasakiso called from the name of the Japanese city in which between 2014 and 2015 it was responsible for an important epidemic, is in all respects a Norovirus del genogruppo 2 (GII)highly infectious viruses against which it is usually necessary to apply rigorous sanitary measures.
“During the first 16 weeks of the 2024/2025 season this was the most commonly detected norovirus genotype,” confirmed experts from Ukhsa, the British Agency for Health Security. According to the latest bulletin published by the health authorities, cases have more than doubled in the last weekwith a peak of 2,600 more norovirus reports than the previous week, when the peak was 1,100 cases.
Kawasaki Norovirus, how the infection occurs
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Like other noroviruses, also for this Kawasaki variant a very low concentration of viral loads is enough to trigger the infectionwhich occurs mainly via the fecal-oral route, through contaminated water and food. “In the majority of documented cases, transmission occurred through the consumption of contaminated water or food”, say experts, but it is also possible to become infected by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces or via aerosols.
I sintomi del Norovirus Kawasaki
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The incubation period of Kawasaki Norovirus is 12-48 hours, while the infection lasts from 12 to 60 hours. The symptoms are those common to gastroenteritis:
- nausea
- vomitespecially in children
- watery diarrhea
- abdominal cramps
In some cases a slight fever may also occurbut in general the disease has no serious consequences and most people recover in 1-2 days without complications.
Norovirus Kawasaki, the situation in Italy
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The situation in Italy is currently under control and there are no official communications from the Italian health authorities. It is not excluded, however, that the Kawasaki variant could reach our country, as already happened last year with a Norovirus outbreak broke out in an elementary school in Castenasoin the province of Bologna.
Watch Out! Kawasaki Norovirus is Making Waves in the UK
By: Daniel Particelli
November 14th – 4.40pm – MILAN
The Virus on the Rise
An urgent health alert has sprouted from the United Kingdom, and it’s got a name that sounds like it belongs in a wrestling match: the Kawasaki Norovirus. This isn’t your grandma’s norovirus; we’re talking about GII.17, a particularly sneaky strain that is currently responsible for a staggering 70% of all virus cases recorded in UK waters, and over 90% of non-bacterial gastroenteritis cases. Yes, the toilet rolls better be stocked, folks!
What is Kawasaki Norovirus?
The Kawasaki Norovirus—named after a charming city in Japan, a city that probably didn’t ask for this sort of fame—was the star of a pretty nasty epidemic back in 2014-2015. It’s a member of the Norovirus Genogroup 2 (GII), and it’s about as friendly as a bull in a china shop! Health experts from the UK Health Security Agency (Ukhsa) confirmed that in just the first 16 weeks of this current season, this particular strain has outperformed its counterparts. We’re witnessing a spike that’s doubled in just a week, escalating from 1,100 to a jaw-dropping 2,600 cases. Talk about a viral sensation!
How Does Kawasaki Norovirus Spread?
You might be wondering how this pesky virus is spreading like gossip at a family reunion. Well, it turns out that it only takes a minimal amount of viral load to get things going. Transmission generally happens via the fecal-oral route—yes, the icky part of our day-to-day lives—primarily through contaminated food and water. Oh, and don’t even think about dodging it by being a neat freak; you can still get it from touching those contaminated surfaces—or even through aerosols! Isn’t that just delightful? Nothing like a bit of virus mist to spice up your day!
Symptoms of Kawasaki Norovirus
So what can you expect if you invite Kawasaki Norovirus to your party? The incubation period is about 12-48 hours, after which all hell can break loose for anywhere from 12 to 60 hours. Symptoms are your typical gastroenteritis lineup:
- Nausea
- Vomiting (especially beloved by children)
- Watery diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
In some cases, a slight fever may also join the fray, but thankfully, most people will recover within 1-2 days without any serious complications. So, nothing dramatic—just a good excuse to binge-watch your favorite shows while clutching the porcelain throne!
The Situation in Italy
Now, let’s shift our gaze to Italy. As of now, the situation remains relatively under control, and the Italian health authorities have opted to remain eerily quiet on the matter. But don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security; this Kawasaki variant can definitely make the jump across borders, as evident from last year’s outbreak at an elementary school in Castenaso. So, Italian parents, keep those hand sanitizers handy!
Conclusion: With such a rapid spread of the Kawasaki Norovirus in the UK, it’s time we all sharpen up our hygiene game! Washing hands? Yes please. Avoiding questionable street food? Absolutely. Remember, folks, an ounce of prevention is worth a pint of disinfectant! Until next time, stay safe, stay healthy, and for the love of all that is good, don’t eat food from a dodgy source.
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What are the symptoms of the Kawasaki Norovirus infection?
Ty? The incubation period for this unwelcome guest is between 12 to 48 hours, and the duration of the infection typically lasts anywhere from 12 to 60 hours. The symptoms mirror those of gastroenteritis and can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting (especially common in children)
- Watery diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
There might even be a slight fever accompanying these symptoms, but most individuals can expect to recover without any serious complications within 1 to 2 days. Just remember to stay hydrated and keep those electrolytes in check!
The Situation in Italy
As for Italy, the current situation remains stable, and no significant outbreaks have been reported by health authorities. However, the specter of the Kawasaki variant making its appearance is not entirely off the table. Last year, we witnessed a norovirus outbreak at an elementary school in Castenaso, located in the Bologna province. So, vigilance is key!
while the Kawasaki Norovirus is making its mark in the UK, staying informed and practicing good hygiene can help fend off this viral disruption. So, wash your hands thoroughly, be cautious about what you consume, and keep an eye on health advisories.
Stay safe and healthy!
