Stomach Flu? It Could Be Norwalk Virus

What is the Norwalk virus?

The Norwalk virus is a type of germ that can cause the "stomach flu." The stomach flu is not the same as influenza. The stomach flu is usually a brief illness that involves nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Symptoms

People with the Norwalk virus can also experience fevers, chills, headaches, muscle aches and fatigue. If you have it, you may actually feel like you have the flu (except that you won't be coughing and congested).

Most Norwalk virus outbreaks seem to happen in the cooler months (December to April). Of course, this may be because we tend to stay inside and be around more people during the winter months.

How does the virus get around?

The virus is very contagious, spreading easily from one person to another. That's why outbreaks of Norwalk virus often occur in crowded places like schools, day-care centers, hotels and cruise ships.

If sick people don't wash their hands carefully, they can pass the virus to others. Also, this virus can get on countertops, utensils, doorknobs, clothes and other common items. Some scientists believe that this virus can even be transmitted through the air.

How long does it take to get sick?

Most people start feeling sick 12 to 48 hours after being infected. People who get the Norwalk virus are contagious from the moment they start feeling sick until up to three days after they're feeling better. Some people can be contagious for as long as two weeks.

Fortunately, the illness only lasts about one to three days. Like most viral infections, the sickness goes away by itself without any special medicines.

How do you treat it?

There's no special pill that can cure an infection caused by the Norwalk virus. It's important to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated. It may be easier to drink small amounts at a time.

How can you avoid getting sick?

The most important thing you can do is wash your hands frequently. Make sure that other family members also wash their hands and practice clean hygiene.

It's also important to wash fruits and vegetables and clean countertops and doorknobs. Immediately wash all clothes worn by sick individuals.

Related Articles Viral Infections When to Run to the Doctor Rotavirus and Child Diarrhea

External Sources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Norovirus. Accessed May 11, 2007. National Institutes of Health. Foodborne Diseases: Norovirus Infection. Accessed May 11, 2007. World Health Organization. Caliciviruses. Accessed May 14, 2007.

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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