Norovirus is the number one cause ofgastroenteritis(the stomach flu) in the United States.
It is a highly contagious virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines.
This leads to symptoms like abdominal cramping, vomiting, and watery diarrhea.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Raw fruits and vegetables or undercooked foods may also become contaminated with the norovirus.
Another potential source is shellfish from water that is contaminated with the norovirus.
How Contagious Is Norovirus?
Risk Factors
Norovirus sickens 21 million people a year and leads to approximately 800 deaths.
Anyone can get it, but some people are at greater risk than others.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of norovirus is generally made through a medical history and physical examination.
Answers to these questions can help sway your healthcare provider away or toward a diagnosis of norovirus.
The RT-aPCR test is not commonly done because of the short course of the infection.
Treatment
The key treatment for the norovirus is to drink lots of fluids.
Occasionally, a norovirus infection will be bad enough to require medical treatment.
In the meantime, continue being proactive about handwashing.
If you do get infected, be sure to hydrate aggressively.
Lastly, on a more positive note, a norovirus vaccine is currently being investigated.
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