girl with stomach ache

Norovirus is Here: Symptoms, Treatment, and Staying Ahead of the Stomach Bug

What You Need to Know About Norovirus

Norovirus, better known as the notorious “stomach bug,” is a virus no one wants to cross paths with. Highly contagious and quick to spread, it can leave you feeling downright miserable, but the good news is most people recover quickly with some TLC and rest. Here’s a closer look at how it’s transmitted, symptoms, how to manage them at home, and when it’s time to get medical help.

The most common transmission route? Feces and Vomit

Remember, you may be contagious before you have symptoms. Hand sanitizer is not effective on norovirus. When someone with norovirus doesn’t wash their hands properly (20 seconds with warm, soapy water) after using the bathroom, vomiting, changing diapers, or caring for others who are ill, they can contaminate:

  • Food they handle
  • Drinking glasses they touch
  • Surfaces they come in contact with

This is why proper hand washing is absolutely critical for preventing the spread of norovirus.

Symptoms of Norovirus

If you’ve been exposed to norovirus, symptoms typically start within 12 to 48 hours. The illness comes on suddenly and can stick around for 1 to 2 days. Common symptoms include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain or cramping

Less common symptoms can include:

  • Low fever or chills
  • Some people may develop a high fever
  • Fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell
  • Headache or muscle aches

Though it’s not pleasant, it’s usually manageable at home.

Caring for Norovirus at Home

There isn’t a specific treatment for norovirus, but there are a few things you can do to ease your symptoms:

  • Stay hydrated. Dehydration is a common concern with norovirus, so drink small sips of water, clear broths, or electrolyte solutions. Dehydration is your biggest enemy with this bug!
  • Choose bland foods. When you’re ready to eat, go for easy-on-the-stomach options like crackers, bananas, rice, or applesauce.
  • Rest. Give your body the time it needs to recover.

Skip over-the-counter anti-diarrheal meds unless your doctor says otherwise—they can sometimes slow things down when your body is trying to get rid of the virus. Avoid contact with others as much as possible during illness and for 48 hours after symptoms end to prevent the spread of norovirus.

When Should You Call a Doctor?

In some cases, norovirus symptoms can become more severe. Here’s when to call a doctor and/or head to the nearest emergency room:

For adults, seek medical care if you experience:

  • Severe dehydration (dry mouth, little to no urination, or dizziness).
  • Bloody diarrhea.
  • High fever or intense abdominal pain.

For children, call their doctor if they:

  • Show signs of dehydration (dry diapers for more than 6 hours, no tears when crying).
  • Vomit persistently or are unable to keep fluids down.
  • Seem unusually drowsy, irritable, or lethargic.
  • Have a high fever

Call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Prevention Tips

Let’s work together to stop the spread and keep our families healthy! Norovirus spreads incredibly easily, so taking precautions is essential:

  • Wash your hands often with warm soapy water for 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer does not kill norovirus. (Learn more about handwashing.)
    • Wash your hands more frequently if someone in your household is sick.
  • Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Disinfect surfaces when you or others near you are ill.
  • Stay home if you’re sick, and wait at least 48 hours after symptoms end before returning to normal activities.

With the right care and precautions, most people recover from norovirus without complications. If you have concerns or your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.

READ MORE:

If you want a refresher, here are a few blog links to more of the viruses that are circulating in the community.