Norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug that causes diarrhea and vomiting, is spreading in the United States. As spring approaches, norovirus cases continue to rise across the country, particularly in the northeast and south. Here’s what you should know about the highly contagious virus:
What is norovirus?
Norovirus, also known as the Norwalk virus, is a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus. It’s commonly referred to as “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.” According to the CDC, anyone can become ill after contracting this virus. It is important to note that it is not the same as “the flu,” which is caused by the influenza virus. The CDC states that it “causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines.” This condition is known as acute gastroenteritis.
According to S. Wesley Long, MD, PhD, Medical Director of Diagnostic Microbiology at Houston Methodist Hospital, “It’s very contagious and easily spread on surfaces and through close person-to-person contact.” Dahlia Philips, MD, an infectious disease physician and Medical Director at MetroPlusHealth, says norovirus is “transmitted by the fecal-oral route.”
Symptoms of norovirus
A norovirus infection typically causes symptoms 12 to 48 hours after exposure. While most people recover within one to three days, the virus can continue to spread for a few days. According to the CDC, some of the symptoms of norovirus include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Stomach pain.
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches.
How to prevent norovirus?
Since norovirus is highly contagious, one of the most important ways to avoid contracting it is to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. It is critical to wash your hands before handling any type of food, particularly when eating or cooking. Other preventive measures listed by the CDC include
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Rinse the fruits and vegetables.
- Cook the shellfish thoroughly.
- Stay at home when sick and for two days after symptoms have subsided.
- Avoid preparing food for others when sick and for two days after symptoms have subsided.
Norovirus treatment
There is no cure for norovirus. The infection’s treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms, which should resolve within one to three days. You can manage your symptoms as follows:
- Drink plenty of liquids, particularly those containing electrolytes.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Eat soft and bland foods.