• Norovirus is a common cause of diarrhea and vomiting in humans.
• Some people call it stomach flu, gastroenteritis, or Norwalk virus.

What are the signs and symptoms of norovirus?

• Symptoms often begin suddenly and may include watery diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, headache, fever, chills, and sore throat.
• The illness usually lasts one to two days and is generally not serious.
• There are no long-term effects related to a norovirus infection, but young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems can get dehydrated (lose too much water from their body).

How is norovirus spread?

• Norovirus is spread very easily. The virus is found in an infected person's stool or vomit. Any contact with the contaminated stool or vomit can make you sick.
• Another way to become infected is by eating foods and drinking water that are contaminated with the virus.
• There are no vaccines or drugs available that work against norovirus.

How can I protect myself?

• Clean your hands well with soap and water or alcohol handrub.  It's the best way to prevent getting sick. Clean your hands after using the toilet, changing diapers, preparing food, eating, or helping someone else eat.
• Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them.
• Clean and sanitize at least once a day washrooms and hand-contact surfaces such as handrails, doorknobs, and phones.
• Stay home for at least 48 hours after you have stopped vomiting or having diarrhea. This is especially important if you work with young children, the elderly, or in an institutional setting.
• Drink lots of clear fluids while you are ill to prevent dehydration.
• Flush any vomit and/or stool down the toilet immediately. Make sure to clean and sanitize the toilet afterwards.

When should I see a doctor?

• See a doctor if diarrhea or vomiting lasts more than two to three days.

If you have any questions or concerns about norovirus, please contact a health inspector in the Control of Infectious Diseases program at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4752.

For more information

Public Health Agency of Canada - Norovirus
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Norovirus