Norovirus is a very contagious infection that causes gastroenteritis. Dr. Pete Mikkelsen, Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director of Emergency Services at Pullman Regional Hospital, encourages the community to “use good handwashing practices, especially around mealtimes and food prep, stay home when sick, and be especially careful around elderly persons, as they may get sicker from the virus than others.”
You can get Norovirus by:
- Having direct contact with someone who has Norovirus
- Eating foods or drinking liquids that are contaminated with Norovirus
- Touching contaminated objects or surfaces, then putting your unwashed fingers in/near your mouth
Anyone can get infected and sick with Norovirus, and people of all ages can get infected during Norovirus outbreaks. Children younger than 5 years old, older adults, and people with weakened or compromised immune systems are more likely to develop severe infections. Most people get better within 1-3 days, but they can still spread the virus for up to 2 weeks afterward.
You can continue to be contagious after you’ve started to feel better. If you’ve experienced symptoms consistent with Norovirus, wait at least 48 hours after symptoms are gone to resume your daily activities and interact with others.
Do I have Norovirus?
Symptoms of Norovirus usually develop 12-48 hours after exposure. The most common symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. Other symptoms can include fever, headache, and body aches.
While symptoms are often confused with the “stomach flu” or a “stomach bug,” Norovirus is not related to the flu, as the flu is caused by the influenza virus. Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, attacking the stomach and intestines.
How to Prevent Norovirus
You can take steps to prevent contracting Norovirus by washing your hands with soap and water often (alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not work), cleaning and disinfecting surfaces with bleach-based cleaners regularly, washing laundry in hot water, and avoiding contact with anyone who is or has been recently sick with Norovirus.
It’s also recommended to lean towards more cooked food versus raw foods during an outbreak of Norovirus, as it’s spread through food by the people who prepare the food then ingested by others.
How to Treat Norovirus
There are no specific medications to treat the cause of Norovirus. Antibiotic drugs will not help treat Norovirus, because they fight bacteria, not viruses. There are medications you can take to treat the symptoms, however, such as anti-nausea medicines.
Rehydrate with fluids that contain electrolytes and glucose (sugar) like sports drinks (Gatorade, Powerade, Liquid IV). Don’t use a diet sports drink or one that has zero calories. Sip these drinks slowly throughout the day for better tolerance.
You can also try broth and broth-based soups to help restore electrolytes and replenish fluids.
Avoid alcohol, sugary drinks (such as juice and soda) and other fluids that contain caffeine, as these can make dehydration worse.
What to do if you think you have Norovirus
Watch for signs of dehydration, as dehydration can lead to serious problems, including hospitalization. Drink plenty of fluids to replace fluid lost from vomiting and diarrhea by sipping frequent, small amounts. Sports drinks and drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration. However, these drinks may not replace essential nutrients and minerals.
It’s important to be especially careful with elderly patients who may have Norovirus. Monitor symptoms and always err on the side of caution if considering seeking medical assistance. If you are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down, seek medical help by contacting your primary care provider, urgent care, or coming to the Pullman Regional Hospital Emergency Department.
