Norovirus: Meaning, Symptoms, Treatment & Causes
Posted By Suborna Fermi
Posted on Apr 30, 2025
Norovirus is known as a group of viruses that may be the reason for severe vomiting and diarrhea. Usually, the rampage of norovirus remains higher during the winter season. Gastroenteritis, which is also known as stomach flu, is caused by norovirus. Norovirus is very common, and it affects both adults and children.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Headache
Norovirus may cause serious health complications, and it’s possible to get infected by the virus multiple times. This is the reason why it is always recommended to get in touch with a reliable medical professional once these symptoms start showing up.
What is the cause of norovirus?
A particular type of virus from the Caliciviridae family causes norovirus. You can get the virus in your body after coming in direct physical contact with someone who has this virus in the body. Apart from that, if you touch any object or surface that contains the droplets released from the body of an infected person and then you unknowingly touch your mouth or nose, then you can get this disease in your body. Norovirus is highly contagious. Once you get the disease in your body, you will start experiencing the symptoms within 12 to 48 hours.
What are the complications caused by norovirus?
- Dry mouth
- Dark coloured pee
- Reduced urination
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Complications in children may include
- Fussiness
- Tendency to sleep during the day
- No tears while crying
Treatment for Norovirus
Your stool sample may be required to be tested to confirm the diagnosis. If you are already undergoing any health condition that may cause a compromised immune system, then you may compulsorily need some tests.
Unfortunately, no cure for norovirus has been introduced so far. The doctors may suggest you to consume plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and get enough rest until your symptoms go away. You may also be recommended to eat soft and bland foods until you get well.
The final thought
The only way to stay away from the negative impacts of norovirus is to wash your hands properly every time you come back home from the outside or before you start using your hands for eating. Apart from that, washing fruits and vegetables properly before eating them and using sanitizers to disinfect the objects and surfaces around you is also very important. Most importantly, you must avoid all kinds of physical contact with any person who is suffering from norovirus infection to avoid getting infected.