Norovirus
Norovirus
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Norovirus is a common cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Illness from norovirus is rarely severe, and most people get better on their own in 1–3 days. Norovirus is very contagious. You can get sick after touching or caring for someone who is sick or after touching or eating something that is contaminated.
Norovirus most commonly causes:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Nausea
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Stomach cramps
Other possible symptoms include fever, headache, and body aches.
People infected with norovirus can feel very ill and may vomit or have diarrhea many times a day. This can lead to dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and typically last 1 to 3 days. A person is most contagious from the moment symptoms start until a few days after they end. However, someone who has recovered from norovirus can continue to spread the virus for two weeks or longer.
Prevention
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. It’s especially important to wash your hands before touching, preparing, serving, or eating food, and after using the toilet, changing diapers, or caring for someone who is sick.
Make handwashing a regular habit. It helps prevent spreading germs when you’re sick and protects you from getting sick when you’re feeling well.
What about hand sanitizer? Hand sanitizers are not very effective against norovirus. You can use them in addition to washing your hands, but they should not replace washing with soap and water.