Norovirus- a common contagious infection

Noroviruses represent a common and highly contagious type of infection that affect healthy people of all ages. These are very common on cruise ships, but can also affect people who do not travel. People who are in close quarters such as daycare centers, school cafeterias, and nursing homes can develop symptoms due to food that has been contaminated. The most common symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping which may also include fever, body aches, or chills.


The biggest complication in this category of infection includes dehydration. When people vomit or have diarrhea, they are losing more fluid from their body than they realize. Even drinking water or Gatorade will not replace as much fluid that is lost after a single episode of vomiting or diarrhea. After several days, a person has lost so much fluid that they become dehydrated.

Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, severe body aches, elevated pulse, difficulty standing, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. Many people will require IV fluids to rehydrate the body and replace the fluid that has been lost.

Antibiotics are generally not recommended for Norovirus infections because it is not caused by bacteria. However, prescription medications such as Zofran or Phenergan are used for the vomiting.

If you suspect you have Norovirus or have symptoms of food poisoning, contact your doctor immediately.