Noroviruses (Nor-O-virus-es) are a group of viruses that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It is spread very easily from person to person. Norovirus is the most common cause of vomiting and diarrhea, and foodborne illness in Indiana. Norovirus infection is also called:
You can get Norovirus by accidentally getting tiny traces of feces (poop) or vomit from an infected person in your mouth. This can happen if you
Symptoms usually begin 24 to 48 hours after ingestion of the virus but can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure. Symptoms usually last for one or two days. However, during that period, people can feel very ill and vomit, often violently and without warning, many times a day.
The most common symptoms of Norovirus are:
Other symptoms may include
Due to the frequent episodes of diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration can occur.
Diagnosis
Norovirus can be diagnosed by testing the stool of an infected person, ideally within 48 to 72 hours after symptoms start. Talk to your health care provider about testing or contact your local health department if you believe your illness is associated with an outbreak.
Treatment
There is no specific medicine to treat people with Norovirus illness. For treatment it is important to:
Once you or your child start having symptoms of the illness, such as diarrhea, do not attend work (specifically for food handlers, healthcare workers, daycare workers) or attend daycare or school until a healthcare provider or someone from your local health department says you are clear to go back.
If you believe you have a Norovirus infection and have not yet been treated or spoken to a doctor, please be sure to do so. You should be evaluated by a doctor to confirm that you have Norovirus, and that you get the correct treatment.
Page last updated/reviewed: December 2024
