Norovirus — often nicknamed the “winter vomiting bug” — is one of the most common causes of stomach bugs worldwide. It spreads incredibly easily, especially in places like schools, care homes, offices, and hospitals — and it’s particularly active during the colder months.
You can catch it from:
- Someone who’s infected (even if they seem better)
- Contaminated food or water
- Touching surfaces where the virus is present
As unpleasant as it sounds, norovirus spreads when tiny traces of vomit or poo (yes, really) get into your mouth — often via unwashed hands. That’s why good handwashing with soap and water is crucial. Hand sanitiser doesn’t work well against it.
If you’re infected, you can shed billions of virus particles, and it only takes a tiny amount to make someone else sick.
You’re most contagious while you have symptoms — usually vomiting and diarrhoea — but you can also spread the virus for a few days after you feel better, so it’s important to stay home and avoid preparing food until you’re fully in the clear.
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a virus that causes a sudden onset of sickness and diarrhea. It inflames your stomach and intestines (gastroenteritis) and can spread through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or by being close to someone who’s infected. Although it can strike any time of year, winter is its favourite season.
What Are the Symptoms?
If you catch norovirus, symptoms usually appear 12–48 hours after exposure. Common signs include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- A mild fever or chills
- Muscle aches
- Feeling tired and run-down
For most people, symptoms ease up in 1 to 3 days. But for babies, older adults, and those with weaker immune systems, recovery can take a bit longer.
How Do You Know It’s Norovirus?
It often comes on suddenly—one moment you’re fine, the next you’re racing to the bathroom. If you’ve got vomiting, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms, norovirus is a likely culprit. Doctors usually diagnose it based on your symptoms, especially during local outbreaks.
How Long Are You Contagious?
You can pass the virus on:
- From the moment symptoms start
- For at least 48 hours after they stop
- Through tiny traces of the virus on hands, surfaces, food, or in water
- Even for weeks after recovery, the virus can still be found in stool
This is why good hygiene is key—especially handwashing.
Recovery: What to Expect
Most people bounce back within a few days. You might feel tired or have a slightly sensitive stomach for a little while after.
How to Feel Better
There’s no magic pill for norovirus, but you can manage it at home by:
✔ Keeping hydrated – Sip water, oral rehydration drinks, or clear broths
✔ Getting plenty of rest – Your body needs time to recover
✔ Eating light – Stick to plain foods like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce
✔ Staying clean – Wash your hands well with soap and water (hand gel isn’t enough), and disinfect surfaces with bleach-based cleaners
✔ Avoiding food prep – Don’t cook for others for at least 2 days after symptoms stop
When to Get Medical Help
See a doctor if:
- You can’t keep fluids down for more than 24 hours
- You feel very weak, dizzy, or confused
- You’re not passing much urine or showing signs of dehydration
- Symptoms last more than a few days or keep getting worse
How to Avoid Catching or Spreading It
Norovirus is tough, but good hygiene goes a long way. Remember to:
- Wash your hands properly with soap and water (especially after using the toilet or before eating)
- Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly
- Wash fruits and vegetables before eating
- Stay away from others if you’re feeling unwell
The good news? Norovirus is nasty but short-lived. With rest, fluids, and a bit of patience, most people recover quickly. Just be extra careful not to pass it on—because this bug loves to travel fast.
If you’re worried, or not sure, reach out to us, by email or phone.
