Overview
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. It can be spread through contaminated food or water, or by coming into close contact with an infected person. Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last for 1 to 3 days. Noroviruses are difficult to kill due to their resistance to hot and cold temperatures and many disinfectants. Risk factors include eating in places with contaminated food or water, living in close quarters, and having contact with an infected person. While most people recover without treatment, severe dehydration can occur in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. To prevent norovirus infection, practice good hygiene, wash hands thoroughly, and avoid close contact with others during illness.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of norovirus infection include sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, muscle pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last for 1 to 3 days. People with norovirus infection can still shed the virus in their stool for several weeks after recovery, even if they show no signs or symptoms. If you experience severe vomiting, bloody stools, stomach pain, dehydration, or diarrhea that lasts several days, you should consult a healthcare provider.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing norovirus include:
- Eating in a place where food has been handled by someone with norovirus infection or the food has been in contact with contaminated water or surfaces
- Attending preschool or a child care center
- Living in close quarters, such as in nursing homes
- Staying in hotels, resorts, cruise ships, or other destinations with many people in close quarters
- Having contact with someone who has norovirus infection Remember to practice good hygiene and follow proper sanitation techniques to reduce the risk of contracting norovirus.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you or someone you know experiences severe or persistent vomiting and diarrhea, it's important to consult a doctor, especially if:
- There is blood in the vomit or stool.
- The person is severely dehydrated, with signs such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, dark urine, or dizziness.
- The person is unable to keep down fluids.
- The symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
- The person has other medical conditions or a weakened immune system. In such cases, medical attention may be necessary to address dehydration or other complications that could arise from norovirus infection.
Diagnosis
Norovirus infection is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms, but noroviruses can be identified from a stool sample. If you have a weakened immune system or have other medical conditions, your health care provider might recommend a stool test to confirm the presence of norovirus.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Norovirus infection can cause severe dehydration, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or other medical conditions. Dehydration symptoms include fatigue, dry mouth and throat, listlessness, dizziness, and decreased urine output. In severe cases, norovirus infection can lead to death.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of norovirus infection.
Preparing for medical consultation
Please consult a healthcare professional or a local health authority for specific advice on preparing for a norovirus appointment.