Slash your risk of the dreaded norovirus

Winter is in full swing—and viruses are spreading everywhere.

That includes the dreaded norovirus.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the norovirus is sweeping across the country, infecting more people than in recent years.

It’s a highly contagious virus that causes stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other symptoms can include headache, fever, and body aches.

Let’s talk about how you can protect yourself…

Prevention is key

The norovirus typically spikes between November and April. It spreads easily between infected persons—so prevention is crucial. Especially because there’s no effective treatment available, meaning you have to let it run its course.

So, if you or someone you know is sick, stay home to avoid exposure or spread.

Additionally, focus on good hygienic practices—especially when it comes to hand washing. Using good ole’ soap and water is the most effective. (Don’t rely on hand sanitizer, it will not kill the virus.)

Also, pay close attention to cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces.

Moreover, norovirus can sometimes spread through food. So, be especially mindful in the kitchen.

You might want to avoid potluck meals. Don’t prepare food for others if you’re feeling sick. And when it comes to shellfish, be sure to cook thoroughly before serving, since they can sometimes accumulate the pathogen in their bodies.

Now, let’s talk about a unique finding that might help stop the spread of this dreaded stomach virus…

An interesting finding

Grant Hansman, head of CHS junior research group at the German Cancer Research Center noroviruses and the University of Heidelberg, emphasizes how important it is to “provide a safe and harmless disinfectant against human norovirus.”

With that goal in mind, the group accidentally stumbled upon a potential solution.

They discovered an old observation that fruit extracts might reduce the infectivity of the norovirus. So, they expanded on the idea—and narrowed their focus to the citric acid in lemon juice.

Turns out, it actually inhibits the norovirus’ ability to bind to surfaces! This suggests that the citric acid in lemon juice can kill most bacteria.

Best of all, it doesn’t take much. In fact, the researchers noted a few drops of lemon juice on food or surfaces may be enough to prevent the norovirus from spreading.

That’s music to my ears—especially when most people encourage the use of bleach as the most effective disinfectant.

Furthermore, in the current issue of my monthly newsletter, Logical Health Alternatives (“Your ultimate guide to SHIELDING against winter’s WORST”), I outline 12 immune-boosting supplements to ward off colds, the flu, RSV, COVID-19, and more. Click here to access that exclusive article.

Sources:

“Why norovirus is so hard to kill: Here’s how to protect yourself from ‘the perfect pathogen’.” NBC News, 12/31/2024. (nbcnews.com/health/health-news/norovirus-treatment-guide-effective-methods-protection-rcna185872)

“Lemon juice disinfects against human norovirus.” ScienceDaily, 08/25/2015. (sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/08/150825103120.htm)