Master Norovirus with Picmonic for Medicine

Norovirus is part of the caliciviridae family, which are a group of viruses which are RNA, single-stranded, linear and nonsegmented.

Norovirus is an RNA virus, meaning that its genetic material is RNA (ribonucleic acid).

This virus is non-enveloped, meaning that its viral capsid is not covered.

Norovirus has an icosahedral capsid shape.

The genetic material for norovirus is composed of RNA, and this genetic material is single-stranded positive linear.

Norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, and leads to symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Viral infection is typically self-limited and patients should be given supportive therapy, such as oral and IV fluids. Nutrients and minerals should also be administered to replace those lost through diarrhea and vomiting.

Norovirus is highly communicable and contagious, and can easily be spread from contaminated food water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. Close living quarters may increase virus transmission, which is why this virus associated with cruise ships. Additionally, we hear about this disease more on cruise ships because health officials track illnesses on ships, meaning outbreaks are found and reported more quickly on a ship than on land.