What is norovirus?
CDC describes norovirus as a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. People of all ages can become infected, and outbreaks commonly occur where people are in close contact.
How does norovirus spread?
CDC explains that norovirus can spread through direct contact with an infected person, consuming contaminated food or liquids, or touching contaminated surfaces and then putting unwashed hands in the mouth.
Why does handwashing matter?
CDC recommends washing hands well with soap and water as a central prevention measure. It specifically states that hand sanitizer alone does not work well against norovirus and should not be treated as a substitute for soap-and-water handwashing.
Can norovirus still spread after a person feels better?
Yes. CDC states that norovirus can remain in stool for 2 weeks or more after a person feels better, which means viral shedding can continue beyond the period of obvious illness.
What does CDC say about food handling?
CDC advises that people who are sick should not prepare or handle food or care for others and should wait at least 48 hours after symptoms stop before doing so. This is a public-health transmission-control recommendation rather than treatment advice.
What role does cleaning play?
CDC includes prompt cleaning and disinfection of areas contaminated by vomit or diarrhoea among measures used to reduce norovirus spread. It also recommends washing potentially contaminated laundry thoroughly.
Related ChildSpecialist.in information
See diarrhoea and dehydration: general information for parents for the separate source-reviewed overview.
References
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How to Prevent Norovirus, 13 January 2025.
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Norovirus.