Can a human catch a stomach virus or any illness from their dog?
My chihuahua has been throwing up for two days. Now I’m sick. Is this just a coincidence?
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Not usually. Most illnesses are species specific.
No, Norwalk virus is not a zoonotic illness.
Prevention tips:
“Norwalk virus”
(Just remember that hand sanitizers will not kill this virus.House hold cleaners such as Lysol will also not kill you.You must use bleach.)
The Norwalk virus causes viral Gastroenteritis which is known as the nasty 24 hour bug that causes explosive and sudden diarrhea and projectile vomiting.Usually non life threating but can cause complications in the very young,elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
PREVENTION-Wash your hands before preparing food/eating food and most importantly, TOUCHING YOUR MOUTH/NOSE/EYES.
The ONLY way to become infected with this virus is if you ingest the contaminated fecal/vomit particles through your eyes,nose and mouth.
It is impossible to “breathe” in the virus BUT possible to become infected by breathing in aerosol “spray” droplets from someone vomiting right next to you.(the droplets settle within minuted but can still infect someone until cleaned with bleach)
Even if your whole family breaks out with this virus, you can prevent it by washing your hands for at least 15-20 seconds with warm water and soap.Remember that you are not killing the virus, you are washing it down the drain even if you use an antibacterial soap (which only kills bacteria, not viruses) hand sanitizers are also not successful in killing the virus.
If a member of your family comes down with the virus, let them know to wash their hands AFTER a bowel movement and vomiting.
To clean infected areas, clean with BLEACH.Clean bathrooms (all infected areas) with a bleach solution as soon as possible and be sure to prevent cross contamination and wash your hands afterwards.Especially children! wipe down all commonly touched objects like door knobs, faucet handles, light switches, toilet flushers etc.
People are STILL contagious even after 24 hours after their symptoms settle down so it is always important to wash your hands after the rest room (which you should do anyways!)
The key to staying Norwalk virus free is to keep sanitary.Wash your hands after using the bathroom…you could prevent other peoples misery as well as yours!!
TIPS:Do not share any cups/plates/utensils with an infected person and be sure to wash in a bleach solution to prevent cross contamination with the rest of your family.