Stomach bugs, also known as gastroenteritis, are common and often cause vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever. Symptoms usually last about three to seven days. These illnesses are often caused by viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus, which spread easily and are especially common during the winter months.
Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis in the United States, causing an estimated 19 to 21 million illnesses every year.
Common Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms typically appear one to two days after exposure and can include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Watery diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Fever and chills
Headache and muscle aches
Even if symptoms don’t appear, infected individuals can still spread the virus. Illness usually lasts two to three days, though full recovery can take up to a week. The first two days are typically the worst.
How Norovirus Spreads
Norovirus is highly contagious. It can spread even before symptoms begin and sometimes for weeks after recovery. It commonly spreads through:
Direct contact (caring for someone who is sick)
Sharing food, drinks, or utensils
Touching contaminated surfaces
Norovirus can survive on surfaces for up to two weeks, making thorough cleaning essential.
When to Stay Home
Children: Keep home from school or daycare until they are free from vomiting and diarrhea for at least 24 hours.
Adults: Stay home from work for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.
Avoid cooking for others until you are fully recovered.
Even with good handwashing, germs can still spread, so strict hygiene is critical.
Cleaning and Disinfecting After Vomiting or Diarrhea
“Whenever someone vomits, it’s important to immediately clean and disinfect the area,” says Grant Studebaker, MD, FAAFP, FASAM, faculty member and program director at UT Jackson Family Medicine. “Norovirus spreads easily when tiny particles from an infected person’s vomit or stool are accidentally swallowed.”
Follow these steps:
Wear rubber or disposable gloves.
Clean up the mess with paper towels.
Disinfect the area with a bleach-based cleaner.
Let the solution sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping.
Clothing, towels, and bedding can also harbor the virus. Wash soiled items in the hottest water setting, using the longest cycle, and dry them on the highest heat setting.
The Power of Handwashing
Cleaning surfaces is important, but handwashing is the most effective way to stop the stomach bug from spreading. Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating and after using the bathroom.
Tip: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill norovirus effectively, so stick with soap and water.
When to Seek Medical Care
Most norovirus infections resolve on their own with rest and hydration. However, watch for signs of dehydration, especially in young children and older adults. Symptoms include:
Excessive thirst
Sleepiness or irritability
Pale skin or sunken eyes
Decreased urination
Seek medical attention if:
Symptoms last longer than a few days
They worsen over time
You notice blood in your stool
Norovirus infections usually go away on their own and can be treated at home. However, it’s crucial to monitor for dehydration symptoms, as these can appear rapidly. These symptoms include sleepiness, irritability, excessive thirst, paleness, sunken eyes, and decreased urination. If you think you’re dehydrated, your symptoms last more than a few days, or they worsen, consult a doctor immediately. Also, seek medical attention if you notice blood in your stool, as this could indicate another underlying condition that needs treatment.
West Tennessee Healthcare has Primary care clinics throughout the area that can help when you need them. To find one near you, click here.
