If you have ever had a stomach bug, you probably remember it. Sudden vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps can make you feel miserable fast.
In many cases, the stomach bug is caused by norovirus, a highly contagious virus and the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis. Viral gastroenteritis is often called the stomach flu.
While most people recover within one to three days, norovirus spreads easily. Knowing the symptoms and how to prevent it can help protect you and your family.
If you are looking for a broader overview of stomach flu, including other causes and when to seek care, visit our gastroenteritis (stomach flu) page.
Norovirus is a very contagious virus that can cause sudden vomiting and diarrhea. It is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis.
Viral gastroenteritis is often called the stomach flu or stomach bug. It is not the same as influenza, so a flu shot will not prevent norovirus.
Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure.
Common symptoms include:
Symptoms typically last one to three days. Some people may feel weak or tired for a few days after.
Because vomiting and diarrhea can be intense, dehydration is the biggest concern.
Norovirus is extremely contagious. It spreads quickly through households, schools and workplaces.
You are contagious from the moment symptoms start until at least a few days after they end. In some cases, people may continue to spread the virus for up to two weeks.
To reduce the spread, stay home from work, school and public places while sick and for at least two days after symptoms stop.
You can get norovirus by:
Norovirus is one of the top causes of food poisoning. It can spread in restaurants if a food handler is infected.
The virus can also become airborne when someone vomits. Tiny droplets can land on nearby surfaces and infect others.
Norovirus outbreaks can occur anywhere people are close together, including:
In the United States, outbreaks are most common from November through April, but they can happen at any time of year.
There is no antiviral medication for norovirus. Most people recover on their own within a few days.
Treatment focuses on preventing dehydration and easing symptoms.
Vomiting and diarrhea cause fluid loss. Drink small, frequent sips of:
Small sips are easier to tolerate and may reduce vomiting.
Rest helps your body recover and fight the virus.
Medications such as Kaopectate or Imodium A-D may help diarrhea. Talk to a pharmacist or health care provider before using them, especially for:
In general, anti-diarrheal medications are discouraged in children unless directed by their provider.
Stick with liquids until vomiting stops. Then try bland foods such as:
Avoid dairy for about 48 hours, since it may worsen diarrhea while your digestive system heals.
Dehydration is the biggest risk from a stomach bug.
In adults, signs include:
Infants and young children are at higher risk. Watch for:
Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk of complications.
Call your health care provider if:
Seek urgent care if symptoms are severe.
For more information about when stomach flu symptoms require medical evaluation, see our gastroenteritis (stomach flu) page.
Good hygiene is the best defense.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may not work well against norovirus. Wash your hands with soap and water often, especially:
Do not share utensils, cups, toothbrushes or towels.
Disinfect high-touch areas such as:
Bleach is more effective against norovirus than many disposable wipes.
To disinfect:
Test the solution on a small area first.
If someone in your home has a stomach bug:
When cleaning:
Clean nearby surfaces as well, since virus particles can spread through the air during vomiting.
If multiple family members are sick or symptoms are severe, a Banner Urgent Care location can provide evaluation and guidance.
If you are concerned about dehydration or worsening symptoms, seek medical care promptly. Banner Health is here to support your family’s health when you need it.
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