Where It Comes From
Infected people’s stool and vomit; contaminated food (leafy greens, fresh fruits, shellfish), water, and high‑touch surfaces; outbreaks in schools, nursing homes, restaurants, cruise ships [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Eating contaminated food, drinking unsafe water, touching contaminated surfaces then your mouth, or caring for someone who is sick; very few virus particles can make you sick [1].
Why It Matters
Causes acute gastroenteritis, dehydration, missed work or school, and large outbreaks; severe illness is possible in vulnerable groups [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Young children, older adults, people with weak immune systems, residents of long‑term care, food workers, and caregivers [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wash hands with soap and water (hand sanitizer is less effective); wash produce; cook shellfish well; stay home 2 days after symptoms stop; clean and disinfect with bleach‑based cleaners; avoid preparing food for others while ill [1][2].
References
- [1]CDC. Norovirus. https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/index.html
- [2]WHO. Norovirus. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/norovirus