Where It Comes From
Human sewage or vomit contaminating food (like leafy greens, fresh fruits, shellfish), water, and surfaces; the virus survives well in the environment [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Swallowing tiny amounts from contaminated food or water; touching contaminated surfaces and then your mouth; close contact during someone’s vomiting or diarrhea [1][2].
Why It Matters
Sudden illness, dehydration risk, lost work/school time; very low infectious dose; no specific antiviral treatment; outbreaks in healthcare, restaurants, schools, and cruise ships [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Young children, older adults, people with weakened immunity, residents of long‑term care, and food handlers [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wash hands with soap and water (sanitizers may be less effective); cook shellfish thoroughly; rinse produce; stay home and avoid preparing food while sick and for at least 2 days after symptoms stop; clean and disinfect with bleach or an EPA‑registered product effective against norovirus; handle laundry and vomit/diarrhea carefully [1][2][3].
References
- [1]CDC. Norovirus. https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/index.html
- [2]WHO. Norovirus. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/norovirus
- [3]EPA. List G: Products Effective Against Norovirus. https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-g-epas-registered-antimicrobial-products-effective-against-norovirus