Norovirus: What You Need to Know About the Stomach Flu

Novovirus is one of the main causes of the “stomach flu” in the United States. It spreads mainly through contaminated food, often causing inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Symptoms usually last for 1 to 3 days, but without proper treatment, dehydration and hospitalisation may occur.¹ In this article, we will learn about the Norovirus infection, its prevention and symptom management.

How does Novovirus spread?

It spreads through stool and vomit, and without proper hygiene, it can pass from person to person by shaking hands, changing diapers, or touching unclean surfaces. Vomiting creates aerosolized droplets containing the virus, which can be inhaled or land on surfaces, leading to infection.¹ Additionally, the virus can infect shellfish like oysters and clams grown in contaminated waters, affecting consumers when ingested.²

What are the common symptoms of a Norovirus Infection?

Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure.¹ They include:²

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever
• Headache and body aches

Treatment of a Norovirus Infection¹⸴³

While there is no specific treatment or medication, managing the illness is crucial:

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Replace lost electrolytes with oral rehydration salts. 
• Get plenty of rest. 
• Avoid spicy foods and caffeinated drinks (e.g. coffee and tea).

Seek medical help if you show signs of dehydration such as headache, fatigue, and sunken eyes. Since Novovirus is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective against it.

How do we prevent the spread of the Norovirus?

Anyone infected with the Norovirus can be contagious from the start of the illness until 2 weeks after recovery. Hence, to prevent the spread of the virus:³

• Practice proper hand hygiene by washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing diapers. Also remember to wash your hands before, during, and after handling food, or administering medication.³
• Wash food thoroughly during preparation, and cook it well. Cooking the food at high temperatures above 62°C can kill the virus.¹
• Disinfect contaminated surfaces by using chlorine bleach solution, leave it on for 5 minutes, then clean it again with soap and water. Be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals as well as contaminants.¹ 

Are hand sanitisers effective against Norovirus?

Alcohol-based hand sanitisers have not been found to be effective against Norovirus. This is because the protective protein shell around the virus prevents alcohol from inactivating it. Thus, washing hands with soap and water is still the best way to prevent infection.⁴

In conclusion, the spread of the Norovirus within our community can be prevented by maintaining proper hygiene and thorough cooking of food. If you have any questions, feel free to drop by any Caring Pharmacy outlet to learn more about it.