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How to manage norovirus infection?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am catering a wedding and my entire kitchen staff got hit with the stomach bug. Started with one of my prep cooks and now eight of us are sick. I have been on the bathroom floor all night, throwing up everything including water. My stomach feels like it is being stabbed and I am so dizzy that I cannot even stand up. I have got a massive event in three days and no backup staff either. My hands are shaking so badly that I cannot even text properly. When I visited the clinic, the doctor said it was norovirus but I am also diabetic and have not eaten in 24 hours. What do I do?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Diabetes can complicate your situation. It generally makes the patient more prone to infections and superinfections. It delays the recovery. It can lead to hypoglycemic episodes, dehydration, etc.

I advise you to do the following to control your situation. These include:

  1. Consume small meals, solid or liquid whatever you can keep.

  2. Eat fruits like bananas.

  3. Consume probiotics like yogurt which can improve the gut flora.

  4. Oral rehydration solution (ORS), plain fluid, and coconut water to prevent dehydration.

  5. Monitor blood glucose levels.

As you mentioned about the big event coming, some preventive measures can be taken:

Disinfecting areas contaminated with norovirus is crucial due to the virus's highly contagious nature. It can be done by following steps-

Clean the surface first:

  1. Wear gloves: Always use disposable gloves to protect yourself from exposure.

  2. Clean the area: Before disinfecting, clean the surface with soap and water to remove visible dirt and debris.

Use a suitable disinfectant:

  1. Check for disinfectant products labeled as effective against norovirus or other viruses with similar resistance, such as Clostridium difficile or rotavirus.

  2. Bleach solution: You can use a diluted bleach solution (1/3 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water). Ensure the solution is fresh and the area is well-ventilated when applying.

Apply the disinfectant:

  1. Follow product instructions: Apply the disinfectant generously to the contaminated surface.

  2. Allow contact time: Ensure the disinfectant sits on the surface for the required time (usually five to ten minutes) to effectively kill the virus.

Wipe down surfaces:

  1. After allowing the disinfectant to sit for the recommended time, wipe down the surface with clean paper towels or disposable cloths.

Launder contaminated fabrics:

Clothing, bedding, or towels: Wash any contaminated fabrics in hot water (at least 140°F (Fahrenheit) or 60°C (degree centigrade)) with a good detergent. Add bleach if safe for the fabric.

Dispose of gloves and materials properly:

  1. Dispose of gloves and paper towels: After cleaning, dispose of all disposable materials in a sealed trash bag to prevent further contamination.

Wash your hands:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after cleaning.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Reema Wankar

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At March 30, 2025
Reviewed AtApril 4, 2025

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