Norovirus, also called “winter vomiting bug”, is a stomach bug that causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting. The disease, which commonly spreads through food or water, is highly contagious and can bring unpleasant symptoms. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis is norovirus, which causes as many as 685 million cases annually.  

Read on if you wish to learn what norovirus is, its symptoms and prevention.

Norovirus is a group of viruses that can cause severe diarrhoea and vomiting. Being extremely contagious, the virus generally spreads during the winter months. Stomach discomfort and diarrhoea usually start after 12 to 48 hours of exposure. The symptoms of this disease can last up to 3 days. 

Most people fully recover without needing any therapy. However, diarrhoea and vomiting can dehydrate some patients and necessitate medical attention, particularly for small children, older adults, and those with existing medical conditions.

There are numerous ways in which norovirus can spread. If you want to know how norovirus spreads, read through the following points: 

• Close contact with a virus-carrying person
• Contaminating your hands, then touching your mouth or nose
• Consuming tainted food or drinks

Usually, the virus spreads when an infected person handles food before feeding it to another person. Moreover, note that oysters and other seafood items are often naturally contaminated with the norovirus.

These symptoms include:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Low-grade fever
• Loose diarrhoea
• Muscle pain
• Stomach cramps or pain

After healing, you may pass the virus in your faeces for a few weeks. This shedding may continue for several weeks or months if you have another medical condition.

You can contract norovirus infection due to:

• Consuming contaminated food and water
• Touching your hand to your mouth after contact with a contaminated surface or object
• Coming in contact with someone who has contracted the virus

These viruses can be difficult to deal with since they are resistant to high and low temperatures and numerous disinfectants.

A medical professional will identify norovirus if they are informed of your symptoms. Testing is often not required, although a doctor may analyse a stool sample for diagnosis. If you have a disorder that impairs the function of your immune system, tests are typically required.

The norovirus is incurable. Your symptoms will typically subside in one to three days after treatment for the infection, which is focused on treating your symptoms. Your symptoms can be controlled by following these tips:

• Consuming a lot of liquids, particularly those that contain electrolytes
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Eating bland & mushy food

Although you cannot guarantee the prevention of contracting norovirus, there are a few precautions you can take to stop the spread of this disease. These include:

• Frequently washing your hands with soap and water
• Washing produce (fruits and veggies) before eating it
• Ensuring that your food is thoroughly cooked (particularly seafood) or cooked to the proper temperature
• Preventing contact with those who are infected with the norovirus
• Cleaning and sanitising things and surfaces that are often touched
• Wash your clothing in-depth, especially if it's dirty

Note that if you are infected with the virus, you should not typically cook food or come in close contact with anyone, as it may carry the risk of transmission.

Anyone can get norovirus. However, a few risk factors include:

• Coming in contact with someone who has already contracted the disease
• Having a compromised or weak immune system

It is crucial to know all about this disease and take the necessary steps to stay safe. If you are afraid of contracting the virus, consider keeping yourself and your surroundings well-sanitised and frequently wash your hands with soap and water.