Norovirus
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is an illness that usually includes diarrhea or vomiting or both. It commonly occurs in the winter and is often referred to as "stomach flu" (although it is not caused by the influenza virus). Norovirus infection causes outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhea in child-care centres, long-term care homes, as well as on cruise ships, camps, schools and other places where people gather.
What are the symptoms?
People usually experience sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea that lasts from 1 to 3 days. Other symptoms may include fever and stomach cramps.
Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus.
Most people recover in one to three days with symptoms resolving on their own. Dehydration is the most common complication.
How is it spread?
Norovirus is found in the stool (feces) and vomit of infected people. It is easily spread from person to person by:
- Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the norovirus (such as door handles) and then touching your mouth.
- Eating food or drinking beverages that are contaminated.
- Having direct contact with someone who is infected, for example, changing diapers, sharing utensils).
People infected with Norovirus are contagious once they feel ill and for up to 3 days after the symptoms stop. Some people can be contagious for as long as two weeks after recovery.
How is Norovirus infection diagnosed and treated?
Norovirus is diagnosed based on symptoms including the sudden onset, the short duration and quick resolution of the infection. A stool sample may be collected by your doctor in certain circumstances.
There is no specific treatment for Norovirus. Most healthy people will get better on their own within 1 to 3 days.
Is Norovirus infection the same as the "flu"?
No. Influenza (the "flu") is a respiratory illness with symptoms of cough, sore throat, and fever. Getting your influenza vaccine every fall, while important for protection against influenza, will not protect you against Norovirus infection.
What should I do if I, or a family member, become ill?
- Clean your hands thoroughly and often, especially after using the washroom and before preparing food.
- Stay at home until you have been symptom-free for least 48 hours.
- Do not visit hospitals, day cares, or long-term care homes until you have been symptom-free for 48 hours.
- Avoid preparing food for others when you are ill.
- Drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration. Very young children, the elderly, and people with other illnesses are at greatest risk of dehydration.
- Clean and disinfect high touch surface areas (such as taps, door handles, tv remotes and keyboards) often.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
How can I reduce my risk of Norovirus infection?
Clean your hands for a minimum of 15 seconds with warm water and soap after using the toilet or diapering. If soap and water are not available, and hands are not visibly dirty, use an alcohol-based hand rub (70% to 90% alcohol), before you prepare or eat food.