NBC Connecticut: Norovirus cases driven by ultra-contagious variant are surging. And hand sanitizer won't kill it Norovirus, the infamous "winter vomiting disease," is surging again across the United States. Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes sudden, often violent bouts of diarrhea and ...

Understanding the Context

Norovirus cases driven by ultra-contagious variant are surging. And hand sanitizer won't kill it A highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea is likely affecting some people in Los Angeles County. Concentrations of norovirus, sometimes referred to as the โ€œwinter vomiting disease,โ€ ... You can get norovirus from sick people and through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Key Insights

You are most contagious when you have symptoms of norovirus illness or during the few days after you feel better. You can continue to shed virus in your stool for several weeks after recovery. This shedding can last weeks to months if you have another medical condition. Some people with norovirus infection may show no signs or symptoms. However, they're still contagious and can spread the virus to others.

Final Thoughts

Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, can be contagious for longer than you have symptoms. Find out how long you need to stay home when you have a stomach bug. There is a short lag or incubation period (up to two days) between the time that people acquire the virus and the time they get symptoms. People may be contagious during this period. Understanding how long you remain contagious with norovirus is crucial for preventing its spread. Typically, individuals infected with norovirus are most contagious during the first few days of illness and can remain so for up to 48 hours after symptoms subside.

People who have norovirus are most contagious when they have symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea. But people are still very contagious up to 3 days after their symptoms go away. After that, people are less likely to spread the virus. But that doesnโ€™t mean they're in the clear.