Norovirus Infection (cont.)
How serious is norovirus disease?
People may feel very sick and vomit many times a day, but most people get
better within 1 or 2 days, and they have no long-term health effects related to
their illness. However, sometimes people are unable to drink enough liquids to
replace the liquids they lost because of vomiting and diarrhea. These persons
can become dehydrated and may need special medical attention. This problem with
dehydration is usually only seen among the very young, the elderly, and persons
with weakened immune systems.
How do people become infected with noroviruses?
Noroviruses are found in the stool or vomit of infected people. People can
become infected with the virus in several ways, including:
- eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus;
- touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus, and then placing their
hand in their mouth;
- having direct contact with another person who is infected
and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for someone with illness, or
sharing foods or eating utensils with someone who is ill).
Persons working in
day-care centers or nursing homes should pay special attention to children or
residents who have norovirus illness. This virus is very contagious and can
spread rapidly throughout such environments.
When do symptoms appear?
Symptoms of norovirus illness usually begin about 24 to 48 hours after
ingestion of the virus, but they can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure.
Are noroviruses contagious?
Noroviruses are very contagious and can spread easily from person to person.
Both stool and vomit are infectious. Particular care should be taken with young
children in diapers who may have diarrhea. How long are people contagious?
People infected with norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin
feeling ill to at least 3 days after recovery. Some people may be contagious for
as long as 2 weeks after recovery. Therefore, it is particularly important for
people to use good handwashing and other hygienic practices after they have
recently recovered from norovirus illness.
Next: Who gets norovirus infection? »
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