Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
QuickSymptom
Monitor Symptoms
🍽️Digestive Issues

Norovirus (Stomach Flu)

A highly contagious virus causing sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Often called "stomach flu" or "winter vomiting bug," norovirus outbreaks surge in winter months.

Statistics & Prevalence

Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea in the US, causing 19-21 million illnesses annually. It leads to 56,000-71,000 hospitalizations and 570-800 deaths each year, mostly in young children and older adults. December 2025 shows elevated norovirus activity with outbreaks reported in schools, cruise ships, and healthcare facilities.

What is Norovirus (Stomach Flu)?

Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis—inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Despite being called "stomach flu," it's not related to influenza. **2025-2026 Season Alert:** Norovirus activity is elevated this winter, with increased outbreaks reported nationwide. The virus spreads rapidly in enclosed environments like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships. **Key Facts:** - **Highly contagious:** As few as 18 viral particles can cause infection - **Fast onset:** Symptoms begin 12-48 hours after exposure - **Short but intense:** Most recover in 1-3 days - **No immunity:** You can get norovirus many times; there are many strains **NOT the same as food poisoning:** While norovirus can spread through contaminated food, it also spreads person-to-person. Unlike bacterial food poisoning, antibiotics don't help. **"The 24-hour bug":** Many people call it a "24-hour bug" because the worst symptoms often pass within a day, though full recovery takes 2-3 days.

Common Age

All ages; severe dehydration risk highest in young children and elderly

Prevalence

19-21 million cases annually in US; leading cause of gastroenteritis

Duration

1-3 days acute illness; may feel weak for several days after

Why Norovirus (Stomach Flu) Happens

**How Norovirus Spreads:** 1. **Person-to-person:** The main route. Close contact with infected person 2. **Contaminated food:** Food prepared by infected person, shellfish from contaminated water 3. **Contaminated surfaces:** Virus survives on surfaces for days; touching then touching mouth 4. **Airborne particles:** Vomiting creates aerosolized virus particles **Why it spreads so easily:** - Extremely low infectious dose (18 particles) - Virus can survive on surfaces for days to weeks - Persists on hands even after washing - People remain contagious for days after recovery - Resistant to many common disinfectants **Peak Season:** - Most common November through April - Outbreaks common in enclosed settings (schools, cruise ships, nursing homes) **Incubation Period:** - 12-48 hours after exposure - Very sudden onset—often waking people from sleep

Common Symptoms

  • Sudden, intense nausea
  • Projectile vomiting (often the first symptom)
  • Watery diarrhea (non-bloody)
  • Stomach cramps and pain
  • Low-grade fever
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration signs: dry mouth, decreased urination, dizziness

Possible Causes

  • Norovirus infection (several strains)
  • Direct contact with infected person
  • Eating food prepared by infected person
  • Eating raw or undercooked shellfish
  • Touching contaminated surfaces then mouth
  • Exposure to aerosolized vomit particles
  • Drinking contaminated water

Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.

Quick Self-Care Tips

  • 1Focus on staying hydrated—this is the most important thing
  • 2Sip small amounts of clear fluids frequently (water, broth, electrolyte drinks)
  • 3Avoid solid food until vomiting stops
  • 4Progress to bland foods (BRAT: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
  • 5Rest—your body needs energy to fight the virus
  • 6Avoid dairy, fatty, and spicy foods for 48 hours after recovery
  • 7Stay isolated to prevent spreading to family members
  • 8Use separate bathroom if possible; clean with bleach solution

Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.

Home Remedies & Natural Solutions

1

Oral Rehydration

The most important treatment. Sip small amounts every 5-10 minutes. Oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte, Drip Drop) are ideal. Sports drinks diluted 50/50 with water work too. Avoid sugary drinks.

2

Ice Chips

If unable to keep liquids down, try sucking on ice chips. This provides hydration without overwhelming the stomach.

3

Clear Broth

Clear chicken or vegetable broth provides hydration plus electrolytes. Warm broth may soothe stomach cramps. Sip slowly.

4

Ginger

Ginger can help with nausea. Try ginger ale (flat), ginger tea, or ginger candies. Fresh ginger in hot water works well.

5

BRAT Diet

Once vomiting stops, start with bland foods: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast. Gradually add other bland foods. Avoid dairy, fatty, and spicy foods for 48 hours.

6

Rest

Your body needs energy to fight the virus. Rest, sleep, and avoid strenuous activity until fully recovered.

Note: Home remedies may help relieve symptoms but are not substitutes for medical treatment. Consult a healthcare provider before trying any new remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

FDA-Approved Medications

Important: The medications listed below are FDA-approved treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication. This information is for educational purposes only.

Oral Rehydration Solutions (Pedialyte, etc.)

Specially formulated solutions with the right balance of water, sugar, and electrolytes. More effective than water alone for rehydration. Available OTC in liquid, powder, and freezer pop forms.

Warning: Not the same as sports drinks—these have proper electrolyte balance for illness.

Ondansetron (Zofran)

Anti-nausea medication that can help control vomiting. Available by prescription. Often given to prevent dehydration, especially in children.

Warning: May cause headache or constipation. Dissolving tablets available for those who can't swallow pills.

Loperamide (Imodium)

Anti-diarrheal that can reduce frequency of diarrhea. Available OTC. Generally safe for adults.

Warning: Not recommended for children under 6. Don't use if fever or bloody stool. May prolong illness slightly by slowing elimination of virus.

Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

Can help with nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea. Has mild antibacterial properties.

Warning: Not for children under 12 (Reye's syndrome risk). Can cause black stool and tongue (harmless). Contains aspirin-like compounds.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

For fever and body aches. Gentler on stomach than ibuprofen.

Warning: Don't exceed 3000mg/day. Check other medications for acetaminophen.

Lifestyle Changes

  • ✓Wash hands thoroughly and frequently (20+ seconds with soap)
  • ✓Avoid preparing food for others for 48-72 hours after recovery
  • ✓Clean contaminated surfaces with bleach solution (5-25 tablespoons per gallon)
  • ✓Wash contaminated laundry separately with hot water
  • ✓Avoid raw shellfish from potentially contaminated waters
  • ✓If someone in household is sick, don't share towels or utensils
  • ✓Stay home when sick and for 48 hours after symptoms resolve
  • ✓Teach children proper handwashing

Risk Factors

  • Close contact with infected person
  • Eating food prepared by infected person
  • Being in enclosed environments (cruise ships, nursing homes)
  • School-age children (high transmission)
  • Young children (dehydration risk)
  • Elderly (dehydration risk)
  • Immunocompromised individuals
  • Healthcare workers

Prevention

  • Wash hands frequently and thoroughly (20+ seconds)
  • Avoid preparing food when sick
  • Clean contaminated surfaces with bleach
  • Wash fruits and vegetables
  • Cook shellfish thoroughly
  • Stay home when sick
  • Wash laundry carefully if contaminated

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of severe dehydration (very dark urine, dizziness, confusion)
  • Unable to keep any fluids down for 24 hours
  • Bloody vomit or stool
  • Fever above 104°F (40°C)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
  • Infants: fewer than 3 wet diapers in 24 hours
  • Infants: no tears when crying, sunken fontanelle
  • Elderly or immunocompromised with symptoms
  • Underlying conditions that could worsen

Talk to a Healthcare Provider

If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

QHow long am I contagious with norovirus?

You're most contagious when having symptoms and for 48 hours after they stop. However, you can shed virus in stool for up to 2 weeks. Wash hands carefully even after recovery. Don't prepare food for others for at least 48 hours after recovery.

QIs norovirus the same as food poisoning?

Norovirus is one cause of what people call "food poisoning," but it also spreads person-to-person. Unlike bacterial food poisoning, norovirus doesn't respond to antibiotics. The treatment is supportive care and hydration.

QWhy do I keep getting norovirus?

Unlike some viruses, norovirus infection doesn't provide long-lasting immunity. There are also many different strains. You can get norovirus multiple times throughout your life.

QHow do I disinfect after norovirus?

Norovirus is hardy and resistant to many cleaners. Use a bleach solution (5-25 tablespoons per gallon of water). Clean all contaminated surfaces, especially bathrooms. Wash contaminated laundry with hot water separately from other items.

QCan I take Imodium for norovirus?

You can, but some doctors advise against it because diarrhea helps eliminate the virus. If you do use it, only for adults, not if you have fever or bloody stool, and stop after 2 days or when diarrhea stops.

References & Sources

This information is based on peer-reviewed research and official health resources:

  • 1

    Norovirus

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

    View Source
  • 2

    Norovirus Treatment

    CDC

    View Source
  • 3

    Preventing Norovirus

    CDC

    View Source
  • 4

    Viral Gastroenteritis

    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

    View Source

Was this information helpful?

35 people found this helpful

Your feedback is anonymous and helps us improve our content.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.

Information last reviewed: January 2026

This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.