Norovirus, often referred to as the “stomach bug,” continues to be one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. Highly contagious and notoriously difficult to contain, the virus can spread rapidly through person-to-person contact, contaminated food or water, or surfaces harboring viral particles.
According to the National Institute for Infectious Diseases, approximately one in 15 Americans will contract norovirus annually, affecting individuals of all ages. Dr. Melanie Conolly, Medical Director for Monroe West, explained that norovirus remains a significant public health challenge due to its resilience and ease of transmission.
The virus typically strikes with sudden symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever, and body aches. These symptoms usually last between one and three days, but the virus’s contagious nature extends beyond visible illness. “In some cases, a person may be slightly contagious as long as two weeks after they start to feel better from norovirus,” Dr. Conolly said.
Unlike bacterial infections, norovirus cannot be treated with antibiotics, nor is there a vaccine to prevent it. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, particularly dehydration caused by frequent vomiting and diarrhea. Staying hydrated is critical, especially for children, who may show signs of severe dehydration such as lethargy, fussiness, and tearless crying.
Preventing norovirus relies heavily on hygiene and sanitation. Thorough handwashing—especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or before preparing food—remains the most effective defense against infection. Surfaces contaminated by norovirus particles should be cleaned and disinfected promptly, and clothing, bedding, and towels used by infected individuals should be washed thoroughly.
While norovirus does not spread through the air like COVID-19, outbreaks are often linked to contaminated food sources. A recent outbreak affecting eight states was traced to raw oysters from Texas, highlighting the ongoing risk of foodborne transmission.
“The best thing people can do to prevent norovirus is to practice good hand hygiene and to keep surfaces as clean as possible,” Dr. Conolly advised. “If a person does become sick, they should stay home, stay hydrated, and rest as much as possible.”
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