CHICAGO (WBBM Newsradio) – Doctors are warning of an early increase in norovirus cases, the highly contagious stomach virus that causes sudden vomiting and diarrhea, as colder weather sends more people indoors.
Health officials say the virus spreads easily through contaminated food, shared surfaces and close contact, making places like schools, nursing homes and households frequent outbreak settings.
Dr. Santina Wheat, program director of the McGaw Northwestern Family Medicine Residency at Delnor Hospital in Geneva, says symptoms can appear quickly after exposure.
“This is a really quick disease,” Wheat said. “You might actually start having symptoms within 12 to 24 hours of being exposed.”
While symptoms can be intense, doctors say most cases are relatively short-lived.
“The good thing about this virus is it does not last all that long,” Wheat said. “Usually people are clearing their symptoms within two to three days.”
Medical concerns are centered on dehydration, especially among young children, older adults and people with compromised immune systems who may be more vulnerable to serious complications.
“There’s not really a treatment that happens for norovirus,” Wheat said. “The only thing that we can do is treat the symptoms and that really means focusing on staying hydrated.”
Because norovirus is particularly resilient on surfaces, health experts emphasize handwashing with soap and water rather than relying solely on hand sanitizer. They also recommend disinfecting high-touch surfaces with bleach-based cleaners and thoroughly cooking foods, especially shellfish.
Health officials also urge those who become sick to stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop and avoid preparing food for others to help prevent spreading the virus.
Anyone experiencing symptoms lasting longer than three days, difficulty keeping fluids down, severe weakness or signs of dehydration is advised to contact a healthcare provider.