Yes, the CDC is saying this is a bad virus; the "Sidney" strain was identified last year, and has come from Sidney, Australia, across the globe...and because it's new, there is little to no immunity to it.
As with most noroviruses, the biggest threat is dehydration. I know I'm always harping on drinking your water and keeping your fluids up...but did you know that dehydration can cause a heart attack? And did you know that by the time you feel thirsty, you're already well on your way to dehydration?
Especially when vomiting and having diarrhea, dehydration is a significant concern...so, as usual, water, water, water. If you're having a hard time keeping it down, drink room temperature or slightly warm water (and juice, too). Stay away from caffeine (coffee, tea and sodas) as caffiene is a diuretic (meaning makes you pee = dehydration). Fruits can be eaten, too...the juicier the better (think oranges).
But if you can't keep anything down, and feel as if you're getting dehydrated, go into the ER...they'll give you a bag of fluids in your veins if necessary to keep you stable.
And, also as always, wash your hands...we have so many newfangled things like little antiseptic dispensers that fit in your pocket and/or purse, but good ol' handwashing is probably the single best thing to keep from getting ill.
I am kinda glad I haven't had a lot of energy lately...keeps me inside, and away from folks who are ill. And away from folks who are NOT ill themselves, but are carriers of an illness or contaminated by it somehow.
Sigh.
Best-
Herding Cats
