Norovirus or Norwalk-Like Virus Fact Sheet
What is it?
Viruses that cause vomiting and diarrhea (gastroenteritis), which is sometimes called the “stomach flu.” During an outbreak, it can lead to staff missing work, increased demands on nursing staff due to many ill residents and staff, visiting restrictions, and other problems.
What are the symptoms?.
How is Norovirus diagnosed and treated?
Testing for Norovirus can only be done at the Oregon State Public Health Lab through your local health department. It is diagnosed by looking at symptoms and the time they start. There is no medicine for Norovirus, but patients need to be watched for dehydration and fluid imbalances. People do not build good defenses against Norovirus, so it is possible to get it again.
How is it spread?
Ill people can spread Norovirus to others while they have vomiting and diarrhea and may spread the disease for as long as a week after symptoms leave. Vomit and diarrhea of ill people are very infectious and the virus lives on surfaces for an extended amount of time. Proper cleanup and keeping ill people away from well people is very important.
Who can get it?
Anyone who has not been recently infected, but the elderly are at increased risk of becoming very ill and possibly dying.
How do you keep it from spreading?
Who to call?
If you suspect a Norovirus outbreak, tell the Nursing Supervisor at your facility, then call Marion County Health Department at (503) 588-5621.