Noroviruses

  • Group of viruses that cause gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) illness
  • Infections seen more in the fall and winter months, often in outbreaks. Usually does not cause serious problems

Signs and Symptoms

  • Symptoms may appear anywhere from 10-48 hours after exposure
    • Nausea & vomiting
    • Stomach cramps & diarrhea
    • Muscle aches & Headaches
    • Tiredness
    • Fever with chills
  • The symptoms may last from 12 to 60 hours

Spread

  • Noroviruses are found in the feces (stool) or vomit of infected persons.
  • They are spread person to person from unclean hands, by eating food prepared by someone who is ill or by touching contaminated objects
  • Norovirus outbreaks are seen mostly in nursing homes, schools, and daycares
  • Community cases occur from eating food that is contaminated in restaurants, food stores or at home by someone who is ill.

Treatment

  • There is no specific treatment, but drinking fluids is important to prevent dehydration (losing too much water)

Prevention

  • Thorough and frequent hand-washing will prevent spreading the virus

Staff at Nursing Homes and staff and children in daycares are to stay home until 48 hours symptom free