Norovirus: Symptoms, Treatment, And When It Is Urgent

If you’ve ever experienced sudden, intense vomiting or diarrhea, you may have had norovirus, the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in the United States. Highly contagious and fast-moving, norovirus can strike without warning and spread rapidly through households, schools, and workplaces. At Midwest Minor Medical, we’re here to help you recognize the symptoms, understand how long they last, and know when to seek professional care.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is also known as acute gastroenteritis. It spreads easily through contaminated food or water, surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. Often mistakenly called “stomach flu,” norovirus is not related to influenza and can affect anyone at any time.

How Long Does Norovirus Last?

Norovirus symptoms typically begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and usually last between 1 and 3 days. Most people recover without medical intervention, though some, especially young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, may experience prolonged symptoms or complications such as dehydration.

How Long Are You Contagious With Norovirus?

You are most contagious from the moment you start showing symptoms, especially vomiting, until a few days after your symptoms stop. However, the virus can still be present in your stool for up to two weeks after recovery, meaning good hygiene is essential even after you feel better.

Common Symptoms of Norovirus: How to Recognize the Infection

These symptoms can appear quickly and be very intense, often leading to rapid fluid loss and dehydration. The common symptoms of norovirus include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Stomach cramping

• Low-grade fever

• Muscle aches

• Headache

• Dehydration

  
  

How Can You Protect Yourself and Others from Norovirus?

Preventing the spread of norovirus starts with proper hygiene. Here are some tips:

• Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or before eating or preparing food. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, but wash with soap and water as soon as possible.

• Disinfect surfaces: Norovirus can live on surfaces for days, so disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and faucets. Use a disinfectant that is effective against norovirus, or a bleach-based solution.

• Stay home when sick: If you have symptoms of norovirus (like vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps), stay home from work, school, or public places to avoid spreading it to others. Avoid preparing food for others while you're sick and for at least 48 hours after symptoms resolve.

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals: If someone you know is sick, try to keep a safe distance. Avoid sharing utensils, towels, or food with them.

• Clean and wash contaminated clothing and linens: Wash contaminated clothing, towels, and bedding with hot water and laundry soap to help eliminate the virus. If possible, dry them on high heat.

• Prepare food safely: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and avoid eating raw shellfish, which can be a source of norovirus.

  
  

Is Norovirus More Common During Certain Seasons or Weather?

Norovirus is typically more common in winter for several reasons:

1. During colder weather, people tend to spend more time indoors, which can lead to closer contact and easier transmission of the virus in confined spaces, such as homes, schools, and workplaces.

2. Colder air often comes with lower humidity, and dry air can help the virus survive longer on surfaces. This means that the virus can remain viable for extended periods, increasing the likelihood of it being picked up by people who touch contaminated surfaces.

3. During colder months, people may experience lower levels of vitamin D due to reduced sunlight. Research shows that vitamin D deficiency is associated with reduced immune system function and greater risk of infection. 

   
   

That being said, norovirus can spread at any time of year. It is prevalent on cruise ships, for example, due to close quarters, and a new strain (G11.17) seems to be more virulent and contribute to year-round cases. The last season saw a significant increase in cases compared to the previous year, possibly due to the new strain. 

Is There a Cure for Norovirus, or Does it Have to Run Its Course?

Unfortunately, there is no specific cure or antiviral treatment for norovirus. It typically runs its course in a few days. The focus should be on managing symptoms, mainly staying hydrated and resting. Over the counter medicines, like Pepto Bismol, may help ease cramping, diarrhea, and nausea. Aches can be managed with anti-inflamatories and a heating pad or warm baths. 

In the case of severe dehydration or prolonged illness, you will likely require medical attention (see below).

When Should You Visit an Urgent Care Clinic for Norovirus Symptoms?

There are a few Norovirus scenarios when you should visit an urgent care clinic as soon as possible:

• Severe dehydration: This is one of the most dangerous effects of norovirus and can become an emergency if not addressed quickly. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, little or no urine, dizziness or lightheadedness, and weakness. Again, dehydration can be serious, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea: If vomiting or diarrhea is severe or lasts longer than 48 hours, you should visit an urgent care facility. Even if signs of dehydration are not yet present, you can pre-empt them and avoid further complications.

• Blood in vomit or stool: If you notice blood or black, tarry stools, this could indicate a more serious issue, such as bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which requires immediate medical attention.

• Severe abdominal pain: Intense or continuous stomach pain that doesn’t improve may signal a different, more serious condition that needs evaluation.

• High fever: A fever over 101°F (38.3°C), especially if it persists, could be a sign of another infection or complications.

• Inability to keep fluids down: If you can’t drink fluids or keep anything down, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to prevent dehydration.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Norovirus at Our Urgent Care Clinic?

At Midwest Minor Medical, our providers typically diagnose norovirus based on your symptoms, recent exposure history, and a physical examination. Because norovirus causes distinct and sudden gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, lab tests are often unnecessary for diagnosis.

However, in some cases, especially during a community outbreak or when symptoms are severe or persistent, we may recommend a stool sample to confirm the presence of norovirus or rule out other causes of gastrointestinal illness, such as bacterial infections or parasites.

How Will An Urgent Care Provider Help Me Feel Better From Norovirus?

The primary goal during your visit is to assess the severity of your symptoms, check for signs of dehydration, and provide supportive care to help you recover safely. To ease your discomfort, will will typically offer one or more of the following:

1. Hydration: The provider will assess your hydration status and may give you oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. If you're severely dehydrated, they may administer fluids intravenously (IV) to rehydrate you more effectively.

2. Antiemetic medication: Although there's no cure for norovirus, if you're experiencing severe vomiting, the provider might offer antiemetic (anti-nausea) medication to help reduce nausea and vomiting, which will make it easier for you to stay hydrated.

3. Pain relief: If you're experiencing severe abdominal cramps, the provider might prescribe an anti-spasmodic, such as hyoscyamine or or dicyclomine. Anti-diarrheals might also be recommended, such as over-the-counter Immodium.

4. Monitoring: We will monitor your vital signs (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure) to ensure there are no signs of severe dehydration or other complications and may offer guidance on when to seek further medical help if needed.

5. Prevention tips: We will advise you on how to prevent spreading the virus to others, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding food preparation until 48 hours after symptoms resolve.

6. Further testing: if your provider suspects something other than norovirus, he or she may order further testing (such as bloodwork or stool sample) to check for other sources of your gastrointestinal distress. 

   
   

Visit Our Urgent Care based in West Omaha For Fast Relief From Norovirus

If you or a loved one is suffering from norovirus symptoms, don’t wait it out alone. Our experienced medical team at Midwest Minor Medical in West Omaha is ready to help you feel better fast. Walk in today or call ahead for prompt, compassionate care, and let us help you get back on your feet.