Norovirus (“Stomach Flu”) Questions and Answers

Several MSU students have experienced gastroenteritis symptoms during the first week of April. The cause of illness has been identified as norovirus. The source of the norovirus has not been identified.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

The common symptoms hit suddenly and include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping

WHEN DO SYMPTOMS APPEAR?

Symptoms likely occur from 12 to 48 hours after exposure.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I AM SICK

The symptoms last from one to two days and cannot be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications. In the majority of cases, individuals should stay in their apartment or residence hall room to minimize exposing others.

• Stay hydrated by drinking small amounts of juice, sports drinks, decaffeinated tea, or other clear (non-alcoholic) beverages. In the early stages, individuals may need to wait a few hours before attempting to drink anything.
• Store clothing or linens that may be contaminated with virus after an episode of illness. Ideally soiled items should be stored in a large plastic bag and washed in hot water and soap once illness is over.
• In the residence halls, notify your resident hall staff if help with cleanup is needed.

Once an individual is feeling well enough to begin eating, start with small amounts of any of the following four items (known as BRAT):

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast
• Avoid dairy items (milk, cheese, yogurt) until the third day of feeling better.

Instructors and employers are asked to keep in mind that students experiencing these symptoms are advised to stay out of classes, but in most cases will not have seen a medical provider since the illness simply needs to run its course. Therefore, students are not likely to have a medical note despite having been ill.

CAN INFECTION BE PREVENTED?

You can decrease your chance of illness by following these preventive steps:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, especially after toilet visits and before eating or preparing food.
• In areas where illness has occurred, keep windows open to allow ventilation.

For information about norovirus please visit the Centers for Disease Control web site.