How to prevent Norovirus this winter

Jan 12

(3-4 minute read)

Norovirus is a highly contagious illness that commonly circulates during the winter months, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. While it can occur at any time of year, norovirus illnesses are most common between November and April.

What norovirus is and how it spreads

Norovirus spreads easily from person to person and can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, and surfaces. Because it takes only a tiny number of viral particles to infect someone, it can spread rapidly in households, schools, and other shared spaces.

Common symptoms

Symptoms usually begin 12 to 48 hours after exposure and may include:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Nausea and abdominal cramps
Fever, headache, and body aches

Most people recover within 1-3 days, but they can still spread the virus to others even after symptoms resolve.

Top prevention tips

The best ways to reduce the risk of norovirus infection include:

Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before eating or preparing food. Hand sanitizer is not a reliable substitute for handwashing against norovirus.
Prepare food safely. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, and cook shellfish to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Disinfect surfaces properly. Use a bleach solution of an EPA-registered disinfectant that is effective against norovirus, especially after vomiting or diarrhea.
Stay home if you’re sick. Do not prepare food or care for others while symptomatic and for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to avoid spreading the virus.
Handle laundry carefully. Wash contaminated clothes and linens on the longest cycle and hottest water with detergent.

Why it matters

Because norovirus can spread easily in indoor settings and through minimal contact, taking these steps helps protect your family, workplace, and community during peak norovirus season. Visit the Mass.gov website for more information and additional resources.