How do you get the Norovirus? Symptoms and how long does it last on surfaces

Authorities in the United Kingdom are warning the public about the growing threat of Norovirus after a major outbreak has led case levels to surpass recent records. The national surveillance system, that tracks cases, has reported that infections are “66% higher than the average at this time of year.” Additionally concerning is that the outbreak is disproportionately impacting English seniors at such levels not “seen in over a decade.”

What is the Norovirus?

It is very likely that you will have a bout of Norovirus more than once in your life. While, sometimes called the stomach bug or stomach flu, it has nothing to do with influenza virus, otherwise known as the flu.

Because there are many different types of noroviruses, getting infected by one does not necessarily grant immunity to another strain. Once you’ve been infected with one type of Norovirus you may develop immunity to that specific strain, but the protection period is unknown which explains why so many people of all ages get infected during outbreaks.

How do you catch Norovirus?

An outbreak can occur when a person ingests contaminated food or water. Noroviruses spread easily from one person who is infected to another as the infected person can shed billions of norovirus particles, and it only takes the ingestion of a few to become infected. So direct contact with someone with the norovirus illness can result in infection or simply touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your hand in your mouth before washing.

How long can Norovirus live on surfaces?

However, surfaces are another way the virus is transmitted. The virus can survive on surfaces for two weeks, meaning that disinfecting those touched or exposed to droplets is critical to slowing the spread.

To avoid infections, surfaces should be cleaned regularly with “a bleach-based household cleaner or a combination of bleach and hot water.” Public health officials recommend cleaning toilets, faucets, telephones, doorhandles, and other surfaces after they have been used by a person who has become infected.

What are the symptoms of Norovirus and how long before they appear?

Symptoms of norovirus infection generally appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to Norovirus. Most people will experience diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain and vomiting. You may also have body ache, fever and headache. The majority who contract norovirus illness will get better within one to three days.

However, young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems or other illnesses could experience severe illness. This could include having diarrhea and vomiting several times a day which could lead to dehydration.