Few things can derail your week faster than norovirus. One moment you’re going about your day, and the next, you — or someone in your family — are hit with relentless nausea, stomach cramps and exhaustion. It’s not just about feeling miserable; norovirus can make it nearly impossible to work, care for your kids or handle daily responsibilities. 

With the right precautions, you can lower your risk of catching norovirus and keep your household healthy.

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What is norovirus?

Norovirus is often referred to as a stomach virus or stomach bug. It is a highly contagious virus that affects all ages and causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines.

Because it spreads easily in places like schools and grocery stores, outbreaks can happen quickly — especially during peak cold and flu season.

How to recognize norovirus symptoms

Norovirus symptoms can come on suddenly and make you feel extremely unwell. 

If you have norovirus, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Fatigue

Symptoms usually appear within 12-48 hours after exposure and can last for one to three days. Even after you start feeling better, you can still spread norovirus for up to two weeks. Proper hygiene is crucial in preventing its spread.

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How norovirus spreads in Wilton

Norovirus spreads through direct contact with an infected person, contaminated food or water, or surfaces where the virus lingers. 

Norovirus is most commonly transmitted in busy places like:

  • Schools and daycare centers
  • Restaurants and grocery stores
  • Offices and workplaces
  • Public restrooms
  • Nursing homes and assisted living communities

Make sure to keep your hands away from your face! Touching a contaminated surface and then rubbing your eyes, nose or mouth is one of the quickest ways to get infected.

When to see a doctor for norovirus symptoms in Wilton and where to go

Most cases of norovirus clear up on their own, but severe symptoms can lead to dehydration, which may require medical care.

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You should make an appointment with your primary care doctor or go to an urgent care if the following norovirus symptoms last more than a few days:

  • Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth or infrequent urination 
  • Blood in your stool
  • High fever (above 101.5 degrees)
  • If you have a weakened immune system or underlying medical conditions

Young children and older adults are more prone to dehydration, so be sure to keep a close eye on them.

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How to reduce your risk and the spread of norovirus

While norovirus spreads easily, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and those around you:

  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Wash your hands when they’re soiled and especially after doing any of the following:
    • Using the restroom
    • Changing diapers
    • Shaking hands
    • Touching common surfaces
    • Caring for people who are sick
    • Eating or handling food
    • Before giving yourself or someone else medicine
  • Use hand sanitizer if you’re not able to wash your hands with soap and water. While hand sanitizer should not replace washing your hands with soap and water, it is a good alternative.
  • Avoid touching your face as your mouth, nose and eyes are common entry points for the stomach virus.
  • Handle and prepare food safely by washing fruits and vegetables and cooking meats and shellfish to proper temperatures.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly. Wipe down doorknobs, countertops, remote controls, refrigerator handles and any other high-traffic objects people in your house that people touch. 
  • Wash clothing soiled with vomit or feces immediately. Wash the items with hot water and detergent and then dry them at the highest heat setting. Wear disposable gloves and then wash your hands after.
  • Disinfect surfaces contaminated with norovirus immediately. Wear disposable gloves, clean the area with bleach, wipe it up with paper towels, take out the trash and then wash your hands when you are done.

Related content from Nuvance Health: Top tips for keeping your lungs healthy

How to recover from norovirus

There is no specific treatment for norovirus, but staying hydrated is key to recovering! Try to drink enough fluids that equal at least half of your body weight in ounces daily. 

Consider drinking the following to stay hydrated:

  • Water and herbal teas
  • Clear broths like chicken and vegetable
  • Sports drinks with electrolytes 

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Norovirus is unpleasant, but with the right precautions, you can lower your risk of infection and keep your family healthy. Wash your hands, disinfect frequently touched surfaces and stay vigilant — especially during peak illness seasons. And if you do catch norovirus, focus on hydration and rest to help your body recover as quickly as possible.

Dr. Tina Fakhoury is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She believes that excellent care starts with building strong relationships and trust with her patients. Mrs. Fakhoury prides herself in having an office that is warm and welcoming to everyone. Her areas of expertise include prevention and wellness, as well as health screenings and diagnosis for the management of acute and chronic illnesses. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, three children and friends.