Norovirus is on the rise in Utah. Here's what you should know to keep you and your family healthy.

What is norovirus?

A very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea.

Who can get it? 

Anyone can get infected and sick with norovirus. 

How can I get it? 

• Direct or close contact with infected person
• Consuming contaminated food and water 
• Touching contaminated surfaces then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth 
  
• Foods and surfaces become contaminated when fine droplets of infected body fluids (such as diarrhea or vomit) contact them

What are the symptoms?

• Diarrhea 
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Stomach pain 
• Additional symptoms may include: fever, headache, and dizziness.
• Because of diarrhea and vomiting, norovirus can cause patients to become significantly dehydrated.  Signs of dehydration include lightheadedness, dry mouth, decreased or absent urination.

How do you treat it?

• Prevent dehydration drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid lost from vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can lead to serious problems 
• Sports drinks and other drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration. But, these drinks may not replace important nutrients and minerals. Oral rehydration fluids that you can get over the counter are most helpful for mild dehydration.
• If you think you or someone in your family has norovirus, you can use Intermountain Connect Care to get more answers for treatment 24/7/365.

How do you prevent catching norovirus?

• Good hand washing.
• Avoid consuming food or touching surfaces that have been in contact with an infected person.
• If you have symptoms or have been diagnosed with norovirus it is recommended you stay home for 72 hours. You are contagious when you have the symptoms and even during the first few days after you recover from norovirus illness
• If you feel you need to visit a medical professional, Intermountain Connect Care allows you to see a medical provider at your home without potentially spreading the norovirus. 

Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/ or http://health.utah.gov/