Prevention

    The key factor in preventing astrovirus infection is interruption of transmission.  This is especially important for hospitals and other institutions, day-care centers, and families where person-to-person transmission is likely to occur.  The best method of prevention, therefore, is the enforcement of universal hygienic procedures.  Although astroviruses are quite resistant to alcohol disinfection, methanol has been shown to be effective in reducing astrovirus infectivity.
    Anyone handling or preparing food should be mindful to thoroughly wash their hands prior to handling the food at all times, not just during an astrovirus infection.  This is because astrovirus is shed in the feces a day or two before symptoms begin and for several days after diarrhea resolves.  In addition, foods such as shellfish that have been implicated in outbreaks of astroviral gastroenteritis should be carefully selected and prepared.