Norovirus is a very contagious virus. You
can get norovirus from an infected person, contaminated food or water, or
by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus causes your stomach or
intestines or both to get inflamed (acute gastroenteritis). This leads you
to have stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea and to throw up.
Norovirus is the most common cause of acute
gastroenteritis in the United States. Each year, it causes about 21
million illnesses and contributes to about 70,000 hospitalizations and 800
deaths. Norovirus is also the most common cause of foodborne-disease
outbreaks in the United States.
The best way to help prevent norovirus is
to practice proper hand washing and general cleanliness.
Resources
Recommendations and Guidelines for the Control of Norovirus Outbreaks in
Nursing Homes and Health Care Facilities
Food
and Waterborne Disease Program - Norovirus Investigation Information
Norovirus Information from CDC
