What is Norovirus?

About Norovirus:

• It is a common and highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, a condition known as gastroenteritis.
• It is also sometimes referred to as the ‘stomach flu’ or the ‘winter vomiting bug’.
• Norovirus outbreaks usually happen seasonally in colder months.
• People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads very easily and quickly.
• Transmission:
  • It gets transmitted from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces.
• Symptoms:
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramp, nausea, fever, and tiredness.
  • In extreme cases, loss of fluids could lead to dehydration.
• Treatment:
  • Most people recover completely without treatment.
  • No vaccines are currently available to prevent norovirus.
  • It is important to maintain hydration in the acute phase.
  • In extreme cases, patients have to be administered rehydration fluids intravenously.

What is the Difference Between Norovirus and the Stomach Flu?

• Norovirus causes gastroenteritis, which some people may call the “stomach flu.”
• The influenza virus causes respiratory flu, not gastroenteritis.