Families across Texas are seeing a rise in common seasonal illnesses, and one virus, in particular, is making a strong comeback: norovirus. Often referred to as the “stomach bug,” norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What Is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. While many people call it the “stomach flu,” norovirus is not related to influenza. This virus affects people of all ages but tends to spread rapidly among children due to close contact, shared toys, and developing hygiene habits.
Common Norovirus Symptoms in Children
Norovirus symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and may include:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Watery, non-bloody diarrhea
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Stomach cramping
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Low-grade fever
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Headache
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Body aches
Most healthy children begin to feel better within 1 to 3 days, but symptoms can feel intense while they last.
How Norovirus Spreads So Easily
Norovirus is extremely contagious! In fact, an infected person can shed billions of viral particles, making it easy for the virus to spread through:
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Direct contact with an infected person
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Sharing food, drinks, or utensils
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Eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated liquids
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Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth
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Exposure to vomit or diarrhea particles
Norovirus can survive on surfaces for days or even weeks and is resistant to many common household cleaners.
Tips for Families
Norovirus spreads easily, but a few simple steps can help protect your family:
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Wash hands often. Use soap and water, especially after bathroom use and before eating. Hand sanitizer alone is not enough.
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Disinfect surfaces properly. Norovirus can survive freezing temperatures and high heat, so many regular cleaners won’t kill it, including alcohol based cleaners. You can use bleach-based and EPA-registered disinfectants, find the list here of registered cleaners!
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Handle food safely. Wash fruits and vegetables well, cook shellfish thoroughly, and avoid preparing food if you or your child are sick.
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Wash laundry with care. Clean contaminated clothing or linens in hot water and handle them carefully to avoid spreading germs.
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Stay home when sick. Keep children home from school or daycare until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
When Should You Bring Your Child to Urgent Care?
Most cases of norovirus can be managed at home with rest and hydration. However, seek medical care if your child shows signs of dehydration, including:
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Dry mouth or lips
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Few or no wet diapers
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No tears when crying
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Sunken eyes
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Extreme fatigue or irritability
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Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
At Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care, our providers are experienced in caring for children with stomach illnesses and can help determine if additional treatment or testing is needed. Click here to save your spot in line or find a location near you!
