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Norovirus

Recent Increase in Cases of Norovirus

Cases of norovirus infection have increased in NYC. From October to December 2024, more than 2,300 norovirus infections were diagnosed among NYC residents, compared with approximately 1,000 infections during this time in 2023.

Norovirus infection can be prevented with frequent handwashing using soap and water, cleaning surfaces and objects, staying home while sick, and safe food handling. Most people fully recover by resting and staying hydrated.


Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes stomach illness, including vomiting and diarrhea. This illness is also sometimes called gastroenteritis or the "stomach flu," though norovirus is not related to the flu (influenza).

You can get norovirus through contact with infected people, eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated liquids, or touching contaminated objects or surfaces.

Prevention

You can prevent the spread of norovirus by handwashing, cleaning surfaces and objects, staying home while sick, and proper food handling.

  • Wash your hands
    • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers, before eating, or before preparing food
    • Do not use alcohol-based hand sanitizers as a substitute for frequent handwashing, as they do not work well against norovirus
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects
    • Immediately clean up vomit and stool and anything they touch
    • Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, doorknobs, and light switches, and common areas like bathrooms
    • Use a bleach-based cleaner or a disinfectant that is effective against norovirus
  • Stay home when sick:
    • If you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, stay home for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop to avoid infecting others
  • Handle food safely:
    • Wash fruits and vegetables
    • Cook shellfish thoroughly
    • If you are sick, do not share eating utensils

Symptoms

Symptoms start one to two days after infection with the virus. The most common are vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Aches
  • Tiredness

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for norovirus and most people get better on their own. You can take medicine to reduce diarrhea and vomiting. You should also drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. If you get dry skin, dry mouth, or dry eyes, go to a doctor or hospital immediately.

Additional Resources