Noroviruses (Winter Vomiting Virus)

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastrointestinal (stomach and intestines) illness.   These infections are seen more in the fall and winter months, often in outbreaks. It usually does not cause serious problems.

Noroviruses are found in the feces (stool) or vomit of infected persons. They are spread person to person from unclean hands or by eating food prepared by someone who is ill or by touching a number of contaminated objects such as toys and door handles.  

• Swallowing any food or water that has been contaminated with stool (feces) or droplets from a sick person can cause Norovirus infection.
• Norovirus outbreaks are seen mostly in nursing homes, schools, daycares, cruise ships. Community cases occur from eating food that is contaminated in restaurants, food stores or at home by someone who is ill.
• You can get the virus more than once.

• Drinking fluids is important to prevent dehydration (losing too much water)
• Thorough, frequent hand hygiene with soap and water will prevent spreading it
• Do not fix food for others if you are ill
• Stay away from others, especially nursing homes, for 48 to 72 after you have been sick.
• Staff of nursing homes and staff children of daycare centre are not to return to work until 48 hours symptom free