Norovirus "Stomach Flu"
- Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the United States.
- People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus.
- Proper handwashing and other simple steps can help prevent getting and spreading norovirus.
Symptoms of Norovirus
- Most common symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain
- Other symptoms: Fever, headache, and body aches
Treatment
Most people with norovirus illness get better within 1 to 3 days. 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.
Watch for signs of dehydration (loss of body fluids)
If you have norovirus illness, you should drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid
lost from vomiting and diarrhea. This will help prevent dehydration.
Sports drinks and other drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration.
However, these drinks may not replace important nutrients and minerals. Oral rehydration
fluids that you can get over the counter are most helpful for mild dehydration.
Seek medical care for severe dehydration
Dehydration can lead to serious problems. Severe dehydration may require hospitalization for treatment with fluids. If you think you or someone you are caring for is severely dehydrated, call your doctor.
Prevention
Norovirus is very contagious, but you can take steps to protect yourself and others, including:
- Wash your hands well and often.
- Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables.
- Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces.
- Wash laundry in hot water.
