Overview
Norovirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis. It comes on suddenly with vomiting and diarrhea, lasts 1–3 days, and is extremely contagious via surfaces and person-to-person.
Symptoms to watch for
- Sudden vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Low-grade fever
- Body aches
What else could this be?
- Bacterial food poisoning (longer course, often bloody)
- C. diff
- Rotavirus (mostly kids)
How it's diagnosed
Clinical — testing rarely needed unless outbreak investigation.
Treatment
Hydration, hydration, hydration. Small sips of oral rehydration solution (Pedialyte). Ondansetron may help with vomiting.
When to book a visit
Book if you can't keep fluids down for more than 12 hours.
Book online todayFrequently asked
How contagious is norovirus?
Extremely — a few viral particles cause infection. Bleach-based cleaners are needed; alcohol sanitizer doesn't fully kill it.