Norovirus is a very contagious illness that anyone can catch and experience vomiting and diarrhea.
Someone who contracts norovirus may thing they have a stomach bug. Norovirus is a common virus that is not related to the flu and is one of the most common causes of vomiting and diarrhea, alongside foodborne illness.
Common symptoms include:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- stomach pain
- vomiting
Other symptoms include:
- body aches
- fever
- headache
Disease Facts
Norovirus is highly contagious. People can get norovirus through food and water, which is easily contaminated. It’s also easily contracted through contact with sick people and contaminated surfaces.
The best ways to prevent norovirus are by practicing proper hand washing and preparing food safely. If someone has norovirus, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and wash laundry thoroughly after any incidents is crucial to preventing the spread.
Those who are sick should not prepare food or care for others.
Drink plenty of liquids to replace any liquids lost from vomiting and diarrhea. If someone with norovirus shows signs of severe dehydration, they may need to be hospitalized.