Oh, no! Norovirus!

By Joseph Mechak, MD and Nicole Edwards, PA-C

As you’ve probably seen on the news, Norovirus cases are on the rise in our area.  Norovirus is one of a number of different viruses that can cause viral gastroenteritis or the “stomach bug.”  Of these viruses, Norovirus is one of the more contagious and often runs through classrooms and communities like we are seeing now.  Here are some Norovirus basics to help you navigate this surge! 

Norovirus Basics: 

  • Symptoms or Norovirus include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, and fever.  Vomiting and Diarrhea can be profuse and frequent.  Symptoms typically begin 1-2 days after an exposure and usually last for 12-48 hours. 
  • After the illness, some symptoms may linger for up to 7-10 days. It is common for stools to be looser than normal following gastroenteritis. Some children may also develop constipation as their stools start to return to normal.
  • Norovirus is spread through direct contact with the stool or saliva of an infected person.  Washing hands frequently and thoroughly is the best way to prevent infection.
  • Testing is not necessary unless the course of illness is longer than expected or are other concerning symptoms like blood in the stool.
  • Antibiotics are never needed for Norovirus infections.

Treatment Basics: 

  • The most important goal is to keep your child hydrated by encouraging clear fluids.  Pedialyte, Gatorade, water, or breastmilk/formula are great options.  If your child is unwilling to drink from a cup or bottle, try giving a table spoon or syringe of fluid every few minutes. These small volumes add up. 
  • These best way to monitor hydration is through the number of wet diapers or voids per day. A younger child should have at least 4 wet diapers per day and an older child should urinate at least 3-4 times per day.
  • Your child may not want to eat while ill and that is OK.  If your child is able to tolerate solid foods, stick to bland and starchy foods. Avoid spicy or greasy food.  Dairy can also be difficult to digest during and directly following gastroenteritis so reintroduce it slowly. 

When to seek care:

Most cases of gastroenteritis can be treated from home with the supportive measures above but reasons to seek care include: 

  • If your child has not urinated at least 4 times in a 24 hours period
  • If you child develops blood in stool or vomit
  • If your child’s illness last more than 48 hours
  • If you are worried 

If you are concerned that your child is dehydrated and cannot hold down liquids, POPNOW is equipped to provide IV fluids.  You can make an appointment here. 

When to go to the Emergency Room: 

  • If your child cannot stop vomiting  
  • If your child is lethargic or difficult to arouse
  • If your child is showing signs of severe dehydration: lethargy, little/no urine output, dry lips, sunken fontanelle (soft spot).
  • If you are worried

When to return to school/activities:

Your child may return to school when fever free for >24 hours without medication and once their vomiting and/or diarrhea has resolved for >24 hours.

Helpful links

 

 

  • Posted by
  • Allison Kunk