Norovirus

Overview

Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. It is often called the 'stomach flu' or 'winter vomiting bug'.

Yes, norovirus is very common worldwide. It is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) in all age groups.

Anyone can get norovirus, but it is especially common in places where people are close together, like schools, nursing homes, cruise ships, and hospitals.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Watery diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle aches
• Headache

Symptoms in children

• More frequent vomiting
• Fussiness
• Signs of dehydration like dry mouth, no tears when crying, and fewer wet nappies

Symptoms in older adults

• Severe dehydration
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Inability to keep down fluids

Causes

Main causes

• Infection with the norovirus, which is highly contagious
• Eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with the virus
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth
• Having close contact with someone who is infected

Risk factors

• Living or working in crowded settings (e.g., dorms, cruise ships, daycare)
• Having a weakened immune system
• Being very young or an older adult
• Traveling to areas with poor sanitation

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Signs of dehydration: dry mouth, little or no urine, dark urine, dizziness when standing
• Severe or bloody diarrhea
• Vomiting that prevents you from keeping any liquids down for more than 24 hours
• High fever (over 40°C/104°F)
• Your symptoms get worse instead of better

Book a routine appointment if:

• Symptoms that are mild but you are concerned, especially in children or elderly
• You have a chronic illness (e.g., kidney disease, heart disease)
• You are pregnant and have symptoms

Diagnosis

Norovirus is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and medical history. A stool test may be done in some cases, but it is not needed for most people.

Tests that may be done

• Stool sample test to confirm the virus (usually only done in outbreaks or severe cases)
• Blood tests to check for dehydration or other complications

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and recent exposure (like eating out or contact with someone sick). They will check for signs of dehydration. Most people do not need a specific test and are advised to rest and rehydrate at home.

Treatment

There is no specific medicine to treat norovirus. The illness usually goes away on its own. Treatment focuses on preventing and managing dehydration.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of clear fluids like water, clear broths, or oral rehydration solutions (available at pharmacies) — small sips often
• Rest as much as possible
• Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods when you feel ready, like toast, rice, bananas
• Avoid dairy, fatty, or spicy foods until you are better
• Wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading the virus

Medical treatments

If dehydration becomes severe, you may need to go to a hospital or urgent care center to receive fluids through a vein (intravenous fluids). Doctors may also prescribe medicine to help control severe vomiting or diarrhea in certain cases, but this is not common.

Living with this condition

While you are sick, stay home and rest. Avoid preparing food for others and wash your hands often. Clean surfaces with bleach-based cleaners. Stay hydrated and monitor for signs of dehydration.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay home from work, school, or daycare until at least 48 hours after your last episode of vomiting or diarrhea
• Avoid close contact with others
• Wash your hands with soap and water often (hand sanitizer is less effective against norovirus)

Diet and exercise

Focus on drinking fluids. Once you feel better, gradually return to your normal diet. Avoid strenuous exercise until you are fully recovered.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being sick with nausea and vomiting can be stressful and uncomfortable. It may also cause anxiety about eating or going out. Remember that this is a short-lived illness and most people recover quickly.

Prevention

Yes, good hygiene and careful cleaning can reduce the risk. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before eating. Clean and disinfect surfaces with bleach-based cleaners. Wash laundry with hot water. Avoid preparing food for others if you are sick.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe dehydration (which can lead to hospitalisation)
• Electrolyte imbalances (problems with essential minerals in your body)
• Malnutrition (if vomiting and diarrhea last a long time)
• Rarely, other complications like kidney failure or bowel issues

Long-term outlook

The outlook for norovirus is very good. Almost everyone recovers completely without long-term effects. Most people feel better within a few days. The key is to drink enough fluids and rest. If you or someone you care for shows signs of dehydration or severe symptoms, seek medical care promptly.

Find support

International organisations

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Norovirus ↗
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Norovirus ↗

Local organisations

• NHS (UK) - Norovirus ↗ · United Kingdom
• Healthline - Norovirus ↗ · International

Helplines

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