In this blog post , we will evaluate the main viruses that cause food borne-illnesses .
There are notably 4 major viruses that cause food infections including:
- Rotavirus
- Norovirus
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis E
Norovirus
Infection from this virus mainly occurs frOm the intake of under-cooked meats and shellfish e.g oysters, clams etc.
After infection with norovirus , the following symptoms may appear ;
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Fever
Rotavirus
Food infections from this virus are common among children though adults can also be affected.Transmission majorly results from contact with infected faecal matter.For instance after coming into contact with child’s diaper and you do not wash hands well, this can cause spread of the virus.
The illness present with the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Watery diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
Hepatitis A
The food borne illness from hepatitis a occurs form food contamination mainly form poor handling.Assuming a food handler is already infected with the virus , if he or she does not practice proper hygiene when handling food, then transmission can occur. Symptoms such loss of appetite , abdominal pain, nausea , fever , fatigue, joint pain , muscle pain, may occur as a result of the infection. Jaundice may also appear.
Hepatitis E
Infection from this virus mainly results form the consumption of raw or inadequately cooked meats and shellfish.
Symptoms due to infection include:
- Nausea
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
To prevent food infections from viruses, it is mandatory that proper hygiene and sanitation measures be upheld. Ensure you wash your hands well before handling food.The food preparation equipment should also be thoroughly cleaned.Drink treated water and wash fruits and vegetables properly.Also, cook foods especially meats at correct temperatures-allow them to cook well.