Norovirus
Date issued: June 2026
Review date: June 2029
Leaflet section: Infection prevention and management
PDF: Norovirus.pdf [pdf] 171KB
Infection Prevention and Management Team
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a very common virus that causes gastroenteritis (often called a “tummy bug”)
It can affect people in the community and in healthcare settings.
Symptoms can start suddenly and may include:
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nausea (feeling sick)
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vomiting
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diarrhoea
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stomach cramps
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flu-like symptoms
Symptoms usually begin 1to 2 days after infection and typically last around 2-3 days
How is Norovirus spread?
Norovirus spreads quickly if good hygiene is not followed.
It spreads:
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From person to person
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By touching contaminated surfaces or objects
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Through contact with vomit or diarrhoea
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get norovirus.
Some people may become more unwell, including:
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Older adults
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Younge children
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People who are unwell or in hospital
What can you do to help?
You can help reduce the spread of norovirus by:
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Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water:
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after using the toilet
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before eating and drinking
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Telling staff if you have diarrhoea or vomiting
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Follow staff advice, especially if cared for in a single room
How do we prevent the spread?
We take steps to reduce the risk of spread, including:
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Promoting strict hand washing with soap and water
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Asking for a stool (faecal) sample if needed
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Nursing patients with symptoms in a single room
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Using protective clothing such as apron, gloves and sometimes masks
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Increase cleaning of the environment
What does this mean for you and your family?
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Please speak to nursing staff about visiting arrangements.
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Visitors should not visit if they have any diarrhoea or vomiting symptoms within the last 48 hours.
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Visitors must follow advice on hand hygiene and infection prevention
Norovirus should not usually delay your discharged home
When should you seek advice?
Speak to a healthcare professional if:
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Your symptoms are severe or not improving
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You are unable to keep fluids down
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You feel unwell after leaving hospital
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
