Norovirus is a nasty gatro-intestinal illness that affects people approximately 20 million times per year in the United Sates alone. In fact, Norovirus is the number 1 cause of the so-called “stomach flu” in the U.S. The virus has been called “democratic” because it affects everyone. With symptoms including diahareea, vomiting, and general misery, there is certainly a market for a treatment. Now, scientists are closing in on a vaccine.
If everything goes well, the vaccine could be available within 5 years said Charles Arntzen, a molecular biologist at Arizona State University. However, the virus comes in more than 30 strains, and evolves quickly, casting doubt on the effectiveness of any potential vaccine.
A vaccine for Norovirus would be an important step in battling viruses in general. Though Norovirus is usually healed by the body within a day or two, approximately 70,000 people are hospitalized each year with the illness. About 800 per year, mostly elderly, die from Norovirus yearly.
Primary Source: http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/lifestyle/wellness/nasal-spray-may-kill-norovirus-the-scourge-of-cruise-ships#ixzz1n7Mk9MAm
