“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue through these links. Have you ever wondered why one friend seems to get the stomach flu every year while the others remain healthy? Or why your partner never seems to catch the illness even when you do? When it comes to norovirus, also known as the stomach bug or 24-hour flu, your blood type may play a significant role in your susceptibility to the virus.
“Blood type has long been recognized as a factor influencing an individual’s vulnerability to norovirus,” explains Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security specializing in emerging infectious diseases. With cases of norovirus on the rise in the United States, you may be looking for any additional protection you can find. As of the week of December 5, state health departments nationwide reported 91 suspected or confirmed outbreaks, a significant increase compared to previous years.
Norovirus, with its hallmark symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, is highly contagious and affects individuals differently. Let’s explore why this virus shows favoritism and how it spreads with insights from experts like Dr. Adalja, Dr. Patricia Foster, and Dr. Mahesh Polavarapu.
Norovirus is known as “the perfect pathogen” due to its high contagiousness. This virus can be transmitted through contaminated food or surfaces, leading to infections. A common mode of transmission is through projectile vomiting, a particularly effective method for the virus to spread. Bathrooms are often hotspots for contamination, notes Dr. Polavarapu.
Moreover, norovirus can survive on surfaces for extended periods, resisting alcohol-based cleaners. The virus requires only a small viral load to cause illness and evolves rapidly, offering little long-term immunity. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine available for norovirus as of now.
Individuals with type O blood may be at a higher risk of contracting norovirus compared to those with type A, B, or AB blood. Type O blood contains receptors in the gastrointestinal tract that are favorable to certain strains of norovirus, increasing susceptibility. Dr. Polavarapu explains that individuals with type O blood are more prone to norovirus due to the virus’s ability to latch onto specific areas in the gut.
This connection was first established in a study that highlighted the potential vulnerability of those with type O blood to norovirus.”
A study on the correlation between type O blood and susceptibility to norovirus was published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases in 2002. Subsequent studies have affirmed this connection. Another review in 2019 in Viruses suggested that individuals with type B blood may have lower susceptibility to norovirus, but the accuracy of this finding is still debated. A later review in 2020 in Infection, Genetics, and Evolution found that among blood types A, AB, and B, none had a significant advantage in terms of protection against norovirus. Despite variations, a common thread in these studies is that individuals with type O blood are often at higher risk, according to Dr. Polavarapu.
However, it’s essential for individuals with type O blood not to panic yet. These trends may vary depending on the specific virus strain. Dr. Adalja explains that while certain strains may infect individuals with type O blood more easily, this may not always be the case. Nor does having type O blood guarantee contracting norovirus, as it is a contagious virus affecting everyone, with susceptibility influenced by factors such as exposure, existing health conditions, and age.
Genetic factors also play a role in susceptibility. A specific gene mutation, FUT2, can provide some protection against norovirus for a fortunate minority, even among those with type O blood. This gene controls the production of the H antigen that the virus typically binds to during infection. Individuals lacking a functional FUT2 gene, known as “non-secretors,” historically show lower susceptibility to norovirus, as stated in a 2019 review in Viruses. However, unlike blood type, secretor status is not readily known without genetic testing like 23andMe. Fortunately, having this gene mutation poses no negative consequences and may even offer advantages.
It’s crucial to note that while blood type and secretor status influence susceptibility, they are not the sole determinants. Dr. Adalja emphasizes that good hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing and surface disinfection, are key to preventing norovirus infection. Additionally, avoiding sick individuals, refraining from sharing bathrooms, and maintaining hydration in case of infection are essential steps. Seeking medical attention is crucial if symptoms worsen or dehydration becomes severe.
Ultimately, protecting oneself from norovirus involves a combination of awareness, hygiene practices, and appropriate medical care, irrespective of an individual’s blood type or genetic makeup.
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