Norovirus. Moms everywhere are hearing a lot about it, and many, unfortunately, are experiencing the full force of it in their own household. Here are 6 things to know about norovirus, from the symptoms to how to prevent it (hint: hand sanitizer just isn’t enough).
This “Stomach Bug” Is Everywhere
You’re not just imagining it —some reports show the current season’s outbreak of norovirus is double what it was at this time last year. “I’m sure moms have been noticing over the past few years, a lot of contagious infections are spreading in high numbers after they didn’t have to opportunity to do so with measures that were taken when COVID first appeared. We also have more availability of quick tests for norovirus, and I think have come to use these tests more than we have in the past to name the virus causing a stomach bug,” says Brenda Tesini, MD, Associate Professor Infectious Diseases in the Department of Medicine & Pediatrics at the University of Rochester.
The Symptoms Involve Both Ends…
“Throwing up is the biggest one, and it often seems to start suddenly out of the blue in a kid who seemed fine earlier in the day. Most kids will also have diarrhea, and some may have cramping belly pain, fevers and chills,” says Dr. Tesini.
It’s Brutal But Quick—And Usually Can Be Treated At Home
According to the CDC, norovirus usually resolves itself in 1 to 3 days, but you can spread the virus for days or even weeks afterwards. Symptoms come on quick, too – 12 to 48 hours after exposure. “Making sure they stay hydrated is the most important thing – products like Pedialyte or other rehydration solutions work best. Thankfully, the illness is so short-lived that most kids don’t need medical attention and can be safely cared for at home,” says Dr. Tesini.
Dehydration is the Main Issue
In kids, dehydration looks like less peeing (or diapers), as well as crying. Sports drinks and Pedialyte can help with mild dehydration, but if your child has severe hydration (no pee or diapers in 8 hours, is hard to wake up, has fast beating heart, is unable to drink fluids, or you have a baby with a sunken soft spot, or a newborn with diarrhea or vomiting), call your doc. When in doubt it’s always better to check in with the pediatrician, as severe dehydration can be dangerous, and they may require IV fluids to be safe.
It’s Super Contagious—And Handwashing Is Your Best Defense
Infection happens by direct contact (aka caring for a kid, or eating food handled by someone infected), or touching infected surfaces (so disinfect thoroughly and launder dirty sheets and towels with hot water, and clean with bleach). And don’t rely on hand sanitizer, experts say. “Good old soap and water with vigorous rubbing for at least 20 seconds is your best bet,” says Dr. Tesini.
Its Germs May Linger Longer Than Other Viruses
“Many people may not know that people can still have the virus in their poop for a couple weeks even after they get better. So you need to still take care when handling diapers or helping young children in the bathroom as well as keeping those areas clean,” notes Dr. Tesini. If you’re sick, skip cooking for your family for a few days to help keep the rest of your crew healthy.
For more info on symptoms visit the CDC’s website.