Norovirus Outbreaks: What You Need to Know 

Norovirus outbreaks are popping up throughout the country, and outbreaks can keep rising seasonally.

Dr. Afsoun Sichani, Medical Director of WVU Medicine Urgent Care-East, says the most common norovirus symptoms to look out for are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.  

Symptoms often start 12-48 hours after exposure and also can include fever, stomach pain, and body aches. 

This is a highly contagious illness, spreading from person to person, and through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, and water. If you’re sick, you can spread the virus for more than two weeks even if your symptoms are gone.  

To keep yourself and your family safe and as healthy as possible, Dr. Sichani recommends: 

• Washing your hands often and thoroughly with warm water and soap. Hand sanitizers (even alcohol based) may not be enough to remove the viral particles, so it is important to wash your hands.
• Cleaning exposed areas with bleach-based disinfectants.
• Washing exposed clothing and fabrics in hot water and detergent.
• If you get sick, staying hydrated and sticking to bland foods. 

“Mild to moderate cases are often best treated at home with rest and fluids,” she said. “If you become so sick that you cannot stay hydrated at home, visit WVU Medicine Urgent Care locations throughout the Eastern Panhandle.” 

See all Urgent Care location information and check estimated waiting times before you go.  

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  Dr. Afsoun Sichani