What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that causes gastroenteritis - inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It's often called the 'winter vomiting bug' or 'stomach flu', though it's not related to influenza.
Key Symptoms
- Sudden onset of vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Low-grade fever
- Body aches
- Headache
How It Spreads
Norovirus spreads through:
- Direct contact with infected individuals
- Consuming contaminated food or water
- Touching contaminated surfaces
- Breathing in viral particles after someone vomits
Treatment Approaches
Self-Care Measures
- Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte solutions
- Rest adequately
- Resume eating gradually with bland foods
- Avoid dairy products initially
Medical Attention
Seek medical care if you experience:
- Severe dehydration
- Bloody stools
- Excessive vomiting
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
Prevention
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
- Avoid preparing food for others when sick
- Stay home for 48 hours after symptoms resolve
Recovery Timeline
- Symptoms typically last 1-3 days
- Most people recover completely without treatment
- Remain contagious for up to 48 hours after symptoms end
Special Considerations
- Higher risk for young children and elderly
- No specific antiviral medication available
- Can occur year-round but peaks in winter
- Multiple infections possible as immunity is temporary
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact healthcare providers if:
- Unable to keep liquids down for 24 hours
- Signs of severe dehydration appear
- Symptoms are unusually severe or prolonged