GI IMPACT Study

The Diarrhea Study

Norovirus - Information for Patients

What kind of infection is it?

Norovirus is a virus.

How do people get infected?

  1. Norovirus is the most common cause of gastrointestinal illness in the US.
  2. There are 19-21 million cases of Norovirus each year in the US.
  3. Spread from touching things contaminated with the vomit or stool (poop) of an infected person. Norovirus is highly infectious – it only a takes a tiny amount to cause illness.
  4. Contaminated food including shellfish and uncooked vegetables have been common sources.
  5. Can contaminate surfaces - people become infected by touching surfaces then placing hands in their mouth.
  6. Spreads easily and causes outbreaks in schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships.

What are the usual symptoms?

  1. Illness usually starts 10-70 hours after exposure.
  2. Sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, and low-grade fever.

How long does it last?

  1. Typically 1-3 days but can last up to 7 days.
  2. Longer illness in young children and those with weakened immune systems or poor health.

How is it treated?

  1. Prevent dehydration by drinking fluids. For young children, use a rehydration solution such as Pedialyte® or Rehydralyte®. Even a few sips or spoonfuls at a time can help. Sometimes anti-nausea medicines or IV hydration may be necessary if your child cannot keep down any fluids. Warning signs of dehydration include dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness.
  2. Because this is a viral infeciton, antibiotics do not help and may make the diarrhea worse.

Are there possible complications?

  1. Dehydration is the major complication.

Comments:

  1. Norovirus is very contagious and the virus is hard to kill.
  2. Wash hands carefully with soap and water after going to the bathroom or changing diapers, or cleaning up vomit or stool.
  3. Clean contaminated surfaces with disinfectant or bleach solution (5-25 tablespoons of household bleach per gallon of water).
  4. Use gloves to handle soiled cloths or bedding. Wash with detergent and machine dry.
  5. People with diarrhea should not prepare food.

Resources:

  1. CDC Handout