How to Avoid Catching or Spreading Norovirus

Norovirus, also known as the "stomach bug" or "stomach flu," is surging in parts of the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 36 percent rise in cases between Aug. 1 and Dec. 11, 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. Higher-than-normal outbreaks have been reported in several states, including Minnesota and Florida.

The virus — which spreads through traces of feces and vomit — causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is highly contagious in crowded settings like cruise ships and is most prevalent in winter due to increased indoor activity.

Note that hand sanitizer is not effective protection against norovirus. The best defense is frequent and thorough hand washing, along with other important precautions suggested by the CDC.

How norovirus spreads

Norovirus often spreads through food, which can be contaminated if touched by an infected person or placed on a contaminated surface. People are most contagious when symptomatic and for the first few days after recovery. However, you can still spread the virus for more than two weeks after feeling better.

What to do if you are sick

• Do not prepare or handle food.
• Avoid direct contact with others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers, before preparing or eating food, and before taking or giving medicine.

Precautions for food handling and preparation

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Cook oysters and shellfish to an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen utensils, cutting boards, counters, and surfaces, especially after handling shellfish.
• Keep raw oysters away from ready-to-eat food.

How to clean contaminated areas

• Clean and disinfect the entire area immediately.
• Wear gloves and wipe the area with paper towels, disposing of them in a plastic trash bag.
• Disinfect with a chlorine bleach solution or an EPA-registered product against norovirus, leaving it on the area for at least 5 minutes.
• Clean the area again with soap and hot water.

How to handle soiled clothing

• Wear gloves and wash items promptly with detergent and hot water on the sanitize cycle.
• Machine dry at the highest heat setting.
• Wash your hands with soap and water after handling soiled clothing.