Norovirus

Symptoms of norovirus illness usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus, but they can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure.

The symptoms of norovirus illness usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Some people may have a mild fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. The illness often begins suddenly, and the infected person may feel very sick. The illness is usually short, with symptoms lasting only about 1 or 2 days.

Infographics : CDC

Noroviruses are found in the stool or vomit of an infected person. People can become infected with norovirus by eating or drinking contaminated food or water or by touching objects or surfaces contaminated with norovirus, and then placing the hand or object in the mouth.

Due to the highly infectious nature of the virus, outbreaks of norovirus are possible, particularly in settings such as long term care facilities, schools, and cruise ships. Norovirus can also be found in shellfish, especially oysters and clams, or on produce that has been washed or irrigated with contaminated water.

Your doctor can order tests to detect norovirus in stool. The tests are most accurate when performed within 2–3 days after onset of symptoms.

There is no medicine that works against norovirus and there is no vaccine to prevent infection. Severe diarrhea and/or vomiting over a long time may cause the body to lose fluid too quickly. Lost fluids should be replaced by drinking liquids such as fruit juices, soups, and special fluids called oral rehydration salts.