In addition to the usual seasonal influenza, head colds, and covid cases, we are experiencing a norovirus outbreak. Norovirus is the most common cause of the misnamed “stomach flu” (it is not influenza) which causes vomiting and diarrhea. Associated symptoms include headache, nausea, intestinal cramping, body aches, and fevers. Norovirus spreads quickly and easily. You can catch it (and spread it to others) by:
- Direct contact with an infected person (shaking hands or sharing food and eating/drinking utensils)
- Consuming food and beverages contaminated by an infected person
- Touching contaminated objects then putting your unwashed fingers in your mouth or touching your food
There is no specific treatment for norovirus. Antibiotics provide no benefit (they only kill bacteria). Staying hydrated is very important. Sport drinks (like Gatorade) and oral rehydration fluids (Pedialyte) are excellent choices. Beef and chicken broth provide both electrolytes and protein. Avoid caffeine and alcohol until symptoms have resolved completely. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, decreased or absent urination, dark urine (the color of iced tea), extreme lethargy, and confusion. These symptoms should be treated with IV fluids at an urgent care or emergency department. Talk with your doctor about antidiarrhea medications like Imodium-AD. Most people will recover in 1-3 days. However, they can still spread the virus for 2 weeks after symptoms resolve. Yikes!
While there is a stool test for norovirus, most people will have recovered by the time the test results are available.
Protecting yourself and others is very easy. Wash your hands well and often (if I had a dollar for every time I’ve said this…). Hand sanitizer does not work well against norovirus. Avoid shaking hands during the cold and flu season (October to March). Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash all fruits and vegetables. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces and wash the laundry of sick individuals in hot water. Be kind and stay home for 2 days after your symptoms stop.
Fun fact: norovirus is the most common cause of diarrheal outbreaks on cruise ships (90% of cases). It is called the "cruise ship virus."
For more information on norovirus, click here.
