Mutant virus causing Australian gastro epidemic
Tens of thousands of people across Australia are likely to be caught up in a major epidemic of viral gastroenteritis, University of NSW (UNSW) and Prince of Wales Hospital researchers have warned.
Scores of outbreaks caused by the highly infectious norovirus have already occurred in eastern Australia.
The infection causes vomiting and diarrhoea, usually lasting for about three days for which no cure is available.
People in large families and in group settings – including nursing homes and hospitals – are at most risk.
A team led by UNSW virologist Peter White has identified the mutant virus responsible, called the 2006b norovirus strain.
Spread by air, water and personal contact, noroviruses are highly contagious and can survive in food, water and the environment for long periods.
