Norovirus is a highly contagious virus and one of the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis worldwide. It typically causes sudden vomiting and diarrhea and is sometimes called the “winter vomiting bug” because outbreaks are more common during colder months.
The issue recently received renewed attention in neighboring Georgia. According to Aliq.ge, dozens of children attending public kindergartens in Tbilisi were taken to medical facilities with symptoms including vomiting and abdominal pain beginning on September 18.
On September 20, Georgia’s National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC) said preliminary laboratory findings suggested that norovirus was the likely cause of most of the reported cases.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is an RNA virus with numerous genetic variants. Despite sometimes being referred to as “stomach flu,” it is not related to influenza, which primarily affects the respiratory system.
Norovirus infects the gastrointestinal tract and can spread extremely easily, particularly in schools, kindergartens, healthcare facilities and other environments where people have close contact.
Main Symptoms
Symptoms generally develop 12 to 48 hours after exposure and may include:
sudden vomiting and nausea;
watery diarrhea;
abdominal pain and cramps;
low-grade fever or chills;
fatigue and weakness;
headache and muscle aches.
Most people recover within one to three days.
How Does Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread through contaminated food or water, direct contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth.
Tiny particles from vomit or stool can also contaminate nearby surfaces and objects.
People can continue spreading the virus even after they begin feeling better, making careful hygiene particularly important.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Most otherwise healthy people recover without specific medical treatment. However, young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to complications.
The principal concern is dehydration caused by repeated vomiting and diarrhea.
Warning signs of dehydration can include:
very dry mouth;
reduced urination;
dizziness or unusual weakness;
excessive sleepiness or irritability, particularly in children.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
Medical advice should be sought if vomiting or diarrhea is severe or persistent, the person cannot keep fluids down, or signs of significant dehydration develop.
Blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, high fever, confusion or a marked deterioration in general condition also warrant medical evaluation.
Young children and older adults can become dehydrated more quickly and may require earlier assessment.
How Is Norovirus Treated?
There is no specific antiviral treatment routinely used for norovirus, and antibiotics do not work against viral infections.
The main goal is to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Oral rehydration solutions can be particularly useful when vomiting or diarrhea is significant.
Food can usually be resumed as tolerated. There is no requirement for a strict “banana and soup” diet; light, familiar foods may simply be easier to tolerate. Alcohol and large amounts of caffeine are best avoided while dehydrated or recovering.
How Can Infection Be Prevented?
Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is one of the most important preventive measures. This is particularly important after using the toilet or changing diapers and before preparing or eating food.
Frequently touched surfaces should be properly disinfected, contaminated clothing and bedding should be washed, and food should be handled safely.
Because norovirus spreads very easily, people who are ill should avoid preparing food for others and limit close contact while symptomatic and during the early recovery period.
This material is for general informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
