What Causes Norwalk Virus Infection?

Norovirus, formerly called Norwalk virus, is transmitted through contact with fecal matter of infected people, including contact with surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

Transmission

• Food and water can be contaminated with norovirus (from the feces of people who have handled it), and people can infect themselves by touching their mouth after they have touched a contaminated surface.

Time Frame

• Symptoms of norovirus develop within one to two days after exposure and last for one to three days. Fecal matter of infected people may continue to be infectious for three days after symptoms go away.

Common Infection Sites

• Places with poor sanitation as well as day-care centers and nursing homes are common places for norovirus infection. People with weakened immune systems are also more likely to become ill with the norovirus.

Prevention

• Hand washing and avoiding contaminated food and disinfecting surfaces are all important prevention strategies. The Mayo Clinic recommends that people in food services not work while contagious.

Warning

• Because young children and the elderly are at high risk for infection, they should be watched for dehydration. In these groups, it can be difficult to replace fluids fast enough, and hospitalization may be required to administer IV fluids.