Norovirus

Norovirus

What is it?

• Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea.

• It is sometimes called the "stomach flu" or the "stomach bug." However, norovirus illness is not related to the flu. The flu is caused by the influenza virus. Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines.

• Most people with norovirus illness get better within 1 to 3 days; but they can still spread the virus for a few days after.

  
Symptoms:
• Foul smelling frequent belching (burping)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

 Other symptoms which may occur with Norovirus are:
• Fever
• Body aches
• Headache
• Cramping

May cause Dehydration

If you have norovirus illness, you can feel extremely ill, and vomit or have diarrhea many times a day. This can lead to dehydration (loss of body fluids), especially in young children, older adults, and people with other illnesses. Symptoms of dehydration include:

• Decreased urination

• Dry mouth and throat

• Feeling dizzy when standing up

• Crying with few or no tears

• Unusual sleepiness or fussiness

Treatment:

• There is no specific medicine to treat people with norovirus illness. Antibiotic drugs will not help treat norovirus infections because they fight bacteria, not viruses. 

• Drink plenty of Liquids

• Seek medical care if symptoms of dehydration

Prevention:

• Wash your hands well and often.

• Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.

• Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.

• Wash laundry in hot water.

• Stay home when sick for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop.

For Further Information: American Academy of Pediatrics Norovirus information 

 https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/index.html