Dr. Oziel Ortiz of Baptist Health System says what’s commonly referred to as the “stomach flu” can be misinterpreted as food poisoning.
SAN ANTONIO — The CDC says there is no specific medicine to treat people with norovirus. Pediatric hospitalist with Baptist Health System Dr. Oziel Ortiz says hand sanitizer won’t work – washing your hands with soap and water is the most effective way to reduce norovirus contamination.
Right now doctors in Bexar County say they aren’t seeing as many reported cases of the stomach bug here, but they still want parents to be cautious.
The KENS 5 newsroom has seen comments from parents online mentioning dehydration and abdominal discomfort as symptoms. Dr. Oziel Ortiz, a pediatric hospitalist with Baptist Health System says norovirus is the leading cause of food-borne illnesses.
“Norovirus is actually a very common virus it is highly contagious,” Ortiz said. “A lot of people get it.”
Ortiz says dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms that can impact anyone at any age – those more susceptible are the elderly, immunocompromised or children younger than one.
“Transmitted via food that are either contaminated by the virus or whether it be using utensils or drinking from the same drink from somebody that is ill,” he said.
Ortiz recommends not sharing utensils and if someone is ill, that they not prepare meals at home.
“If you’re having too much vomiting, too much diarrhea,” he said. “That could lead to dehydration and can be concerning. At which sign is when we would recommend likely see your physician or present to the emergency room.
Metro Health sent KENS 5 the following statement about norovirus cases in Bexar County that reads in part:
“Local health departments are not required to report cases of norovirus unless there is an outbreak. Bexar County has not had a reported outbreak…”