Norovirus

Context: The Kerala Health Department confirmed two cases of the gastrointestinal infection norovirus.

About Norovirus:

• Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea.
• Norovirus, also called the “winter vomiting bug”, is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • However, norovirus illness is not related to the flu which is caused by influenza virus.
• It is an RNA virus of the family Caliciviridae.
• It is a human enteric pathogen that causes substantial morbidity across both health care and community settings.
• People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus.
• A 2022 study says that norovirus infections are more frequently detected in high income countries, with almost 40% cases being seen in long-term care facilities.
• In contrast, the cases in India have mostly been detected in settings like schools and hostels, where people share food.

Source:  Indian Express

Previous Year Questions

Q.1) Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?

1. They protect the body from environmental allergens
2. They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.
3. They act as immunosuppressants in the body.
4. They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens.

Q.2) Consider the following:

1. Bacteria
2. Fungi
3. Virus

Which of the above can be cultured in an artificial/ synthetic medium?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1,2 and 3