Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes sudden gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. While the illness itself typically resolves within a few days, understanding how long you’re contagious is critical to preventing its spread. In this blog, we’ll cover what you need to know about norovirus contagion, symptoms, and when it’s safe to resume normal activities.
For same-day norovirus testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our center is open 7 days a week and never requires appointments. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply pre-register below!
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It spreads easily from person to person through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact. Norovirus outbreaks are common in crowded environments due to its ease of transmission. Symptoms of norovirus typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last between 1 and 3 days.
The most common symptoms of norovirus include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Mild fever or chills
- Muscle aches
When the illness is usually short-lived, dehydration is a potential complication, especially for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
How Long Are You Contagious?
One of the challenges with norovirus is its high contagiousness. Individuals infected with norovirus are most contagious from the moment symptoms appear and remain contagious for at least 48 hours after symptoms resolve. However, the virus can continue to be present in stool for up to two weeks or more after recovery. Even if you feel better, you can still spread the virus during this time, especially if proper hand hygiene and sanitation are not practiced. This is why it’s essential to be cautious, particularly in environments where food preparation or caregiving occurs.
When Can You Return To Work or School?
To minimize the risk of spreading norovirus, it’s recommended to wait at least 48 hours after your symptoms have completely resolved before returning to work, school, or public activities. Individuals working in food service or healthcare settings should be particularly cautious, as these environments are more vulnerable to outbreaks.
Follow these tips to prevent the spread of norovirus:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces
- Avoid preparing food for others while you’re sick
- Practice food safety
Get Walk-In Norovirus Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer
Norovirus is a highly contagious illness that can spread quickly if proper precautions aren’t taken. While symptoms may subside in a few days, the contagious period extends beyond that, making hygiene and sanitation essential. If you’re experiencing norovirus symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer for a quick diagnosis and treatment plan. Our center is conveniently located at 777 E Speer Blvd. in Denver, CO. Just walk-in! We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-pay patients. If you have any additional questions about norovirus treatment, or other services we provide, contact a member of our team directly at (303) 733-4000.
