You’re experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and are unsure of the cause. Could it be your favorite restaurant that got you sick? The restaurant itself couldn't have made you sick, but perhaps you contracted the stomach flu, also known as Norovirus, from there.

AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has put together a guide to help you understand what Norovirus is, recognize its symptoms, and learn how to prevent it! 

Is It Norovirus?

According to the CDC, Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that often leads to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Anyone is susceptible to Norovirus infection and illness. While it is commonly called the "stomach flu" or "stomach bug," it's crucial to distinguish Norovirus illness from the flu caused by the influenza virus. In the United States, Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illnesses.

What are Norovirus Symptoms? Most Common Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Nausea 

Other Symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Body aches

It is important to note that Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to Norovirus. While most individuals recover within 1 to 3 days, it's crucial to know they may remain contagious and capable of spreading the virus for a few days afterward.

Dehydration symptoms include:

• Decrease in urination
• Dry mouth and throat
• Feeling dizzy when standing up

Knowing these dehydration symptoms is especially important in young children due to the vomiting and diarrhea, which can contribute to dehydration.

When Am I At Risk For Contracting Norovirus? 

You can get Norovirus if:

• A person with Norovirus touches food with their bare hands.
• Food is placed on a counter or surface that has feces or vomit particles on it.
• Tiny drops of vomit from a person with Norovirus spray through the air and land on the food.

Norovirus through contaminated water Water can get contaminated with Norovirus:

• When a person with Norovirus vomits or defecates in the water.
• When water isn’t treated properly, such as with not enough chlorine.

Norovirus spreading through sick people and contaminated surfaces This happens when:

• A person with Norovirus touches surfaces with their bare hands.
• Food, water, or objects that are contaminated with Norovirus are placed on surfaces.
• Tiny drops of vomit from a person with Norovirus spray through the air, landing on surfaces or entering another person’s mouth.

How To Prevent Norovirus

Washing your hands is a crucial step in preventing Norovirus. You should wash your hands after using the bathroom, before preparing any food, and before engaging in any activities involving contact with others. Additionally, disinfecting and cleaning surfaces is important since you may not know who has touched what and whether they were previously infected with Norovirus.

AFC Urgent Care West Springfield can help you recover from Norovirus 

AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has the resources to assist with Norovirus recovery. We're here to help you combat Norovirus and return to your daily life. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield is open 7 days a week, accepting walk-ins as well as appointments. We accept most insurances! 

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