Stomach viruses are highly contagious, but you might be able to prevent them with a little diligent hygiene. Viral gastroenteritis, the medical name for viral stomach infections, is caused by several types of viruses, including rotavirus, adenovirus, astrovirus and the caliciviruses. Stomach viruses are spread through body fluids such as saliva and feces.
Hands
To eliminate stomach viruses on your hands, you must wash thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 30 seconds. Dry hands with a paper towel.
Family
To prevent spreading a stomach virus among family members, all members of the household should diligently wash their hands after using the toilet and touching frequently handled items like door knobs or children's toys.
School
To prevent bringing stomach viruses home, children must also wash their hands at school and immediately upon returning home from school.
Saliva
Stomach viruses are spread through saliva, so don't share food or utensils with someone who has a stomach virus or has recently been exposed to one.
Bleach
Bleaching and drying will kill stomach viruses on surfaces. Wash contaminated clothing and bedding in hot water with bleach. Clean all soiled hard surfaces with a bleach solution and allow to dry thoroughly.
Food
Food contamination by stomach viruses can be prevented if food handlers wash their hands thoroughly before touching food. Food should not be handled by people who have active stomach viruses.
Shellfish
Shellfish can be contaminated with stomach viruses if their water contains raw sewage. To prevent infection, avoid eating raw shellfish.
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