First Aid for Novovirus
Norovirus, often called the stomach flu, is a common virus that causes sudden vomiting and diarrhea. It is not related to the flu caused by the influenza virus. According to the CDC, norovirus is the main cause of acute stomach and intestinal illness in the United States. While cases happen most often in the colder months, the virus can spread at any time during the year.
Most healthy people get better from norovirus within a few days, but those with weaker immune systems may have symptoms for longer. The main risks with this virus include dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with health problems. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, less frequent urination, and feeling dizzy when standing up.
How Norovirus Moves from Person to Person
Norovirus spreads very easily, especially in crowded places like restaurants, schools, and cruise ships. People can pass the virus to others through contaminated food, dirty hands, or by touching surfaces where the virus is present.
Main Ways Norovirus Spreads
- Eating or drinking food and water with the virus.
- Touching surfaces, such as tables or doorknobs, and then touching your mouth.
- Direct contact with someone who is sick, including caring for them.
Outbreaks happen more often in the winter months. Washing hands often and cleaning high-touch areas helps lower the risk.
| Place | Risk Factor |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Contaminated food |
| Schools | Shared surfaces |
| Cruise ships | Close living quarters |
| Nursing homes | Shared bathrooms and meals |
Even a small amount of virus—just a few particles—can make someone sick. That’s why norovirus spreads so quickly in places where people live or eat closely together.
Who Faces Higher Chance of Getting Norovirus
Certain factors raise the chances of catching norovirus. Being in crowded places like cruise ships, schools, nursing homes, and day care centers increases the risk because the virus spreads quickly where people are close together. One infected person can give the virus to many others, especially when people share food or surfaces.
Eating out or working in restaurants and other food settings also adds risk. Food with norovirus usually looks, smells, and tastes normal, so it is hard to know if food is unsafe. Handling food without proper hygiene spreads the virus to many people.
People at Higher Risk
- Those with weakened immune systems (from illness or medication).
- Very young children and older adults.
- People who are already dehydrated or become dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea.
- Anyone who works with or consumes food in public places.
Fatigue and a weak immune system make it harder to fight off the virus and get better. Washing hands before eating and after using the bathroom lowers the chance of getting sick.
Common Symptoms of Norovirus
Norovirus usually causes symptoms 12 to 48 hours after exposure. Most people feel suddenly sick and may vomit or have watery diarrhea several times a day. Other symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Feeling tired or weak
Symptoms often last for 1 to 3 days, but you may feel tired or have a sensitive stomach for several more days. While norovirus is rarely dangerous for healthy adults, it can lead to serious complications if dehydration occurs.
How Long You Are Contagious
People with norovirus are most contagious while they have symptoms and for a few days afterward. Some people can still spread the virus for up to two weeks, even if they feel better. It’s important to avoid preparing food or caring for others during this time.
Stay home for at least 48 hours after your last episode of vomiting or diarrhea to prevent spreading it to others.
Ways to Lower Your Risk of Norovirus
You can help stop norovirus from spreading by taking a few key steps. Hand washing is one of the most important. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after taking out the trash.
Avoid eating or drinking anything that could be unsafe. Only eat food that is cooked fully, especially seafood. Wash fruits and vegetables before eating. If you have vomiting or diarrhea, stay home and do not make food for others.
Clean and disinfect surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms often. Use products with bleach to kill the virus on counters and doorknobs. Hand sanitizers may not work as well as hand washing for this virus.
| Step | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Wash hands | Stops germs spreading. |
| Disinfect | Removes the virus from surfaces. |
| Stay home when sick | Prevents passing it to others. |
| Cook food fully | Kills germs in food. |
| Wash produce | Removes germs from fruits/veggies. |
How Norovirus Is Treated
There is no specific medicine to treat norovirus. Most people recover with rest and fluids. The main focus is staying hydrated. You can do this by sipping water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths. Avoid sugary drinks or caffeine, which can worsen diarrhea.
Eat bland foods like toast, crackers, or plain rice when you feel ready. Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and anything spicy until your stomach feels normal again. See a doctor if:
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than three days.
- You can’t keep fluids down.
- You show signs of dehydration.
- A child, older adult, or person with health conditions becomes very weak.
Norovirus spreads quickly but with the right steps, you can help protect yourself and others from getting sick.
