About this book:

Discover the captivating history of norovirus, from its elusive beginnings as the mysterious "winter vomiting disease" to its modern-day status as a global health challenge. This book chronicles the scientific journey to understand this pervasive pathogen, detailing the pivotal 1968 Norwalk outbreak that led to its first visualization by electron microscopy. Explore how researchers expanded the understanding of this viral family, grappling with confusing nomenclature before its official classification as "norovirus" within the Caliciviridae family.

Follow the advancements in detection methods, from the limitations of early electron microscopy and immunologic assays to the revolutionary impact of RT-PCR and quantitative PCR, which transformed surveillance and our understanding of norovirus epidemiology. Learn about the classic Kaplan criteria for clinical recognition and delve into the specific outbreak settings where norovirus thrives, including schools, hospitals, and cruise ships. Uncover the critical role of foodborne transmission, particularly involving shellfish and produce, and gain insight into the virus's remarkable contagion factors: a low infectious dose and stubborn environmental survival.

The book also explores the intricate biological dance between norovirus and its human host, revealing the surprising link between human histo-blood group antigens and susceptibility to infection. Read about the decades-long research roadblock posed by the inability to cultivate human norovirus and the groundbreaking recent breakthroughs using specialized cell cultures and human intestinal organoids. Finally, discover the ongoing efforts towards developing a norovirus vaccine and specific antiviral strategies, highlighting the challenges posed by the virus's genetic diversity and continuous evolution, particularly the dominance of the GII.4 pandemic strains. This comprehensive history illuminates the scientific progress and public health challenges in the ongoing battle against norovirus in the 21st century and beyond.

What You'll Find Inside:

• Traces the history of norovirus from the early 'winter vomiting disease' mystery to modern molecular understanding.
• Details the pivotal 1968 Norwalk outbreak and the first visual identification of the virus using electron microscopy.
• Explores the challenges of viral detection and the revolution brought by RT-PCR and real-time molecular diagnostics.
• Explains the genetic diversity of norovirus, focusing on genogroups, genotypes, and the evolution of pandemic GII.4 strains.
• Discusses human susceptibility factors, the quest for effective vaccines and antivirals, and current public health strategies for prevention and control.

Who's It For:

This book is for anyone interested in the history and science of infectious diseases, particularly virology and public health. It is especially relevant for students, researchers, healthcare professionals, and public health officials seeking a comprehensive overview of norovirus, its impact, and the scientific efforts to combat it.