HomeHealth articlesnorovirus infectionWhat Are the Symptoms of Norovirus Infection?

Norovirus Infection - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Verified dataVerified data
0
Norovirus Infection - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

4 min read

Share

Norovirus infection is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe dehydration. Read the article below to learn more.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sugreev Singh

Published At August 26, 2021
Reviewed AtApril 25, 2023

Introduction:

Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus affecting the stomach and intestine. It can be transmitted directly or indirectly to people living in close areas like schools, hospitals, etc. It can also be a cause of food poisoning. The typical symptoms include vomiting associated with watery and non-bloody diarrhea. Its incubation period is 12 to 48 hours after the exposure and remains for a maximum of three days. An early exposure does not limit the recurrence, as there are many strains of this virus. It can prove to be fatal in children, the very elderly, and immunocompromised people. Norovirus is one of the leading causes of foodborne illness.

What Is the Course of Norovirus Infection?

Norovirus infections are considered to be caused by a short-living virus that lasts for a few days. However, some prominent evidence shows prolonged or persistent infections in some conditions. The symptoms in patients affected by norovirus infection generally resolve within several days. However, the virus can transmit from asymptomatic individuals for weeks after exposure. On the contrary, the symptomatic infection has been seen in patients with immunosuppression, and those symptoms last for over two years. In children with immunocompetent problems, the symptoms last for six weeks.

What Are the Symptoms of Norovirus Infection?

The symptoms are usually visible within 12 to 48 hours post-exposure to this virus. It can be from mild to moderate. The following are some of the commonly experienced symptoms by the patients:

1. Nausea.

2. Vomiting.

3. Pain or cramps in the abdomen.

4. Mild Fever.

5. Headache.

6. Chills.

7. Diarrhea or watery stools.

8. Generalized body pain.

The range period for the symptoms to exist is between 24 to 72 hours. If one does not see any improvement beyond this period, consult a physician to know the exact cause. Blood in stools is another indication of emergency medical advice. Norovirus infections can be severe in older adults and people with compromised immune systems. Severe diarrhea can cause dehydration, which has to be considered a medical emergency and needs a medical opinion.

Following are the commonly observed signs and symptoms of dehydration:

  • Extremely dry throat and mouth.

  • Dark urine.

  • The output of urine is decreased.

  • Infants do not urinate for more than 6 to 8 hours. It can be checked by a not-wet and clean diaper.

  • Sunken eyes.

  • Decreased urination for about 12 hours in children.

  • Fatigue.

  • Sleepiness.

  • Headache.

  • Confusion.

  • Lethargy.

  • Dizziness.

  • Increased heart rate.

A dehydrated child may cry without tears which is also an indication of dehydration.

How Is It Caused?

The main cause of this infection is Norovirus which can be there in the contaminated food being consumed by a person or can be transmitted via touching the infected person and then touching the nose or mouth with infected hands. These viruses pass through the stomach to the intestines. The virus grows and multiplies in the intestines. The body produces antibodies to fight against these viruses. These pathogens can survive in extreme heat and cold, and also, they can survive outside the body for many days.

The main route of transmission of these viruses is the fecal-oral route, but another route of transmission is also there, like droplets of vomit. It can also spread through close contact with a person who has a norovirus infection.

How Can It be Diagnosed?

When a person visits a physician, they will be asked about their medical and dental history, followed by the signs and symptoms being faced by them. Sudden vomiting, cramps in the abdomen, and watery diarrhea can be seen, along with nausea.

Various examinations can be done, like blood tests and stool tests, within 48 to 72 hours after the initiation of symptoms.

How Can It be Treated?

Since it is a viral infection, there is no specific treatment for the disease, but supportive treatment can be done. The main goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration. The following steps can be followed to assist in giving symptomatic relief:

Take Rest:

Take enough rest when infected. Do not strain one's body.

Drink Plenty of Fluids:

Maintain hydration in the body. Oral rehydration solutions can be used to replace the lost electrolytes of all ages. They are more important in infants and children. Avoid taking sugar-containing drinks as they can lead to worsening diarrhea. Apart from these, avoid caffeine.

Continue a Balanced Diet:

Infants should be continued breastfeeding or formula feeding even when dehydrated.

The following can be consumed by children and adults:

  • Rice.

  • Soups.

  • Plain noodles.

  • Potatoes.

  • Pasta.

  • Eggs.

  • Crackers or bread.

  • Yogurt or curd.

  • Fresh fruit.

  • Vegetables that are boiled or cooked.

  • Lean proteins, for example, chicken and fish.

When severely dehydrated, one may require hospitalization with IV fluids.

How Can It Be Prevented?

As it is believed that Norovirus is extremely contagious and persistent, and there is no vaccine available yet to prevent it. Certain basic steps have to be taken to prevent getting this infection which are explained below:

  • Washing hands after using the toilet or changing the diaper of the baby, or when one takes care of a sick person. Soap and running water should be used for at least 20 seconds to clean the hands. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be used.
  • Wearing gloves and disposal of soiled materials and diapers in plastic bags is advisable when taking care of a sick person. A disinfectant or a chlorine bleach solution on contaminated surfaces should be used.
  • Wash all the vegetables and fruits before eating them or cutting them.
  • Avoid consuming foods and beverages prepared or consumed by a sick person.
  • Stay at home when sick. Cover the mouth while coughing or sneezing. Sanitize hands and maintain distance from other non-infected people or crowded areas.
  • Do not consume raw food or undercooked food.
  • Do not travel when sick.
  • Do not use public swimming pools when suffering from diarrhea.
  • Avoid close and crowded environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes, child care centers, schools, and cruise ships.

It is important to remember the incubation period of the virus as one may feel good within a few days, but still, one might be capable of transmitting the infection to others. Hence, appropriate preventive measures should be taken. In case one notices any serious complications or severe diarrhea, consult a specialist or physician as soon as possible to prevent any further complications and improve the prognosis.

Conclusion:

Norovirus is a very infectious disease and can spread easily if appropriate measures are not taken on time. Also, early diagnosis and treatment are necessary. When a person notices any symptoms or is suspicious, they should consult a physician immediately.

Online medical platforms have made this consultation process very easy. Hence, consult a specialist online to learn more about this condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

How Does One Get Norovirus Infection?

Norovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. It usually spreads through contaminated food and water, or coming in close contact with an infected person, or by touching a contaminated surface.

2.

What Are the First Signs of Norovirus?

The initial and most common signs of a norovirus infection are diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting which usually begins within 12 to 48 hours of exposure to the virus. Low-grade fever, malaise and body pain may also be present.

3.

How Long Does Norovirus Infection Last?

Norovirus infection usually lasts for one to three days during which most people recover completely. However few individuals may experience severe dehydration due to persistent vomiting and diarrhea and may require immediate medical attention.

4.

How Serious Is Norovirus Infection?

Norovirus infection though highly contagious is not life-threatening as most people recover completely within one to three days. However it can prove to be grave in few people such as elderly, infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised. Such individuals would need prompt medical attention to prevent the consequences of dehydration.

5.

Can Someone Be Around A Person With Norovirus?

The easiest way for norovirus infection to spread is by direct contact. Hence it is not advisable to be around or come in contact with an infected person. In case of dire necessity, ensure to wear protective equipment such as gloves, mask, and eye shield when being around an infected person. Appropriate hand hygiene can greatly reduce the risk of transmission.

6.

What Is the Fastest Way to Cure Norovirus?

Norovirus infection has no specific treatment as the disease is self-limiting. However oral rehydration and fluid therapy can ease the recovery and prevent complications associated with dehydration.

7.

How Does the Body Get Rid of Norovirus?

A robust immune system usually takes care of the norovirus infection. The infection provokes the immune system which produces antibodies. These antibodies can effectively fight the virus and eliminate them from the body.

8.

Does Norovirus Go Away on Its Own?

Norovirus is a self-limiting condition that usually resolves on its own within a few days. Adequate rehydration, home care, and rest can help clear the infection completely.

9.

What Food Is Norovirus Found In?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause gastrointestinal illness. It is commonly associated with foodborne outbreaks. Several foods have been identified as common culprits in transmitting the virus. These include green leafy vegetables, shellfish, salads containing tuna, egg, chicken, macaroni or potato, as well as cream pastries and puddings. Consumption of these contaminated foods can contribute to the spread of norovirus.

10.

Who Usually Gets Norovirus?

People of all ages can get infected with norovirus. However, elderly, infants, young children, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and people with systemic illness are more at risk for severe infection.

11.

Is Norovirus Contagious Through Air?

Norovirus transmission usually occurs through the oral routes however recent studies have suggested airborne transmission where minute particles from the vomit spray may land on surfaces and contaminate it or can directly reach the oral cavity of other people.

12.

Who Is the Most Common Victim of Norovirus?

Children under five years of age are mostly commonly affected by acute gastroenteritis caused by norovirus. It is estimated that 685 million cases are reported annually of which 200 million are children under five years. 

13.

How Long Should You Quarantine With Norovirus?

Though individuals with norovirus infection recover within three days, people can shed the virus for about eight weeks though the virulence reduces over time. People can return to work if they have been symptom-free for about 48 hours. Individuals associated with food-service chains are advised to resume work after 72 hours.

14.

How Long Does A Person Be Contagious After Norovirus Infection?

After a person is infected with norovirus, they can start shedding the virus in their stool and vomit shortly after symptoms begin. The contagious period usually lasts for a few days to about 2 weeks, although in some cases, it may persist for up to 3 days after symptoms have completely resolved. The exact duration of contagiousness can vary from person to person. 

15.

How to Test for Norovirus?

No specific test is required to diagnose norovirus. A thorough medical history and physical examination usually reveals the infection. However a stool test may be suggested for more accurate diagnosis or to rule out other causes of gastroenteritis.
Source Article IclonSourcesSource Article Arrow
Dr. Sugreev Singh
Dr. Sugreev Singh

Internal Medicine

Tags:

norovirus infection
Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Source Article ArrowMost popular articles

Do you have a question on

norovirus infection

Ask a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy