Highly Contagious Norovirus Causes Concern at RNC; 11 Delegates Quarantined
After the chaotic start on the first day of the Republican National Convention (RNC) and the plagiarism accusations of Melania Trump's speech, the GOP is now facing another hurdle—norovirus.
Eleven delegation staffers have already experienced the symptoms of the very contagious disease that can be easily transmitted from an infected person.
Erie County Health Commissioner Pete Schade said that the staffers have been avoiding contact with other people and following their instructions so as not to further aggravate the situation.
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Chairman Jim Brulte said that 11 of his 314 delegates got it from one of the staff who brought the virus with her from California. All of the delegates are housed at the Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky Ohio about 60 miles from the Quicken Loans Arena.
With over 50,000 attending the Republican National Convention, the fear of causing an outbreak is evident. The quarantined delegates are being monitored closely after complaining of being ill and showing symptoms of the virus.
What Is Norovirus
Diarrhea and nausea are two of the most common symptoms. Norovirus can develop within 12 to 48 hours after exposure. There is no medicine that can treat the virus, but those affected should take measures to prevent dehydration. Plenty of liquids—water, sports drinks, and beverages with no alcohol and caffeine—must be consumed to replace lost fluids because of vomiting and diarrhea.
Hand washing is the best line of defense against the virus as it is easily transmitted by hand to mouth—when the hand gets in contact with the stool or vomit of the infected person.
No Reason to Panic
Authorities say that there is no reason to panic. By taking precautions like frequent hand washing and making sure that consumed food and liquids are clean, the virus can be kept at bay.
Norovirus, in itself is not deadly, but severe dehydration can cause a bigger problem if not caught and treated early. Conditions usually improve within one to three days.
Spreading norovirus unknowingly is a cause of concern in the RNC. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Amy Edwards said that washing hands carefully is a step toward avoiding the spread of the virus. The attendees and delegates have been advised to limit handshaking and sharing of food, and encouraged to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly.
