What to know about the extremely contagious stomach bug
Norovirus may be nothing new, but the illness is making headlines once again due to its rapidly climbing infection rates this season.
The extremely contagious stomach bug can be passed through close contact with an infected individual and through contaminated foods, drinks and surfaces.
The main symptoms of infection include vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping. These symptoms may sound like stomach flu, but norovirus can be more severe than a typical stomach bug.
“We don’t like the term stomach flu for a couple of reasons,” explains Dr. Robert Citronberg, the executive medical director of infectious disease and prevention at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. “First, norovirus is not an influenza virus. Second, the term ‘stomach flu’ is a generic term for many gastrointestinal illnesses. We prefer to call it what it is – norovirus.”
Like other stomach illnesses, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Ensuring you drink extra fluids is especially important when you become infected with norovirus. If you cannot keep fluids down, Dr. Citronberg recommends contacting your primary care provider as you may require fluid replacement.
Norovirus illness typically last 1 to 3 days and symptoms can begin as soon as 12 hours after exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
People of all ages can get norovirus – with elderly, young children and immunocompromised most at risk for severe illness.
If you are caring for a loved one with the virus, Dr. Citronberg recommends the following precautions:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Avoid relying on alcohol-based hand sanitizers – they do not kill norovirus as effectively as soap and water.
- Don’t put your hands in or near your mouth.
- Keep your bathroom and kitchen surfaces clean.
If you or a loved one are experiencing signs of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dizziness, or infrequent urination, seek medical attention immediately.
Find the best care for your symptoms here: Illinois | Wisconsin
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About the Author
Anna Kohler, health enews contributor, is an external communications specialist for Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. She received her bachelor's degree in public relations from Illinois State University and has worked in health care public relations and content marketing for over five years. In her free time, she enjoys working out, exploring new places with her friends and family, and keeping up with the latest social media trends.
