Gastrointestinal infections: Identify and properly treat norovirus

Whether in nursing homes, on vacations, or on cruise ships: once one person is infected, it quickly spreads to many others. "It's very easy to become infected, because the special thing about norovirus is that even a small dose—10 to 100 viruses—is enough," says gastroenterologist and specialist in internal medicine Professor Dr. Birgit Terjung, media spokesperson for the German Society for Gastroenterology, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases (DGVS).

The virus can stick to surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, or even food, which promotes contact infections. "It is primarily transmitted through stool and vomit," explains Terjung. When someone vomits, the viruses can float through the air in fine aerosols—infection can occur via droplet infection.

The incubation period for norovirus is relatively short, explains Terjung. It can begin as early as six hours after contact with the virus. However, initial symptoms can also appear up to 50 hours after contact. This is shorter than for many other viruses—and especially than for bacteria.

Anyone who has ever had a painful encounter with the norovirus knows: "The symptoms come almost explosively," says Terjung. "You have to vomit very often and have a lot of Diarrhea . This is accompanied by a strong feeling of illness: fatigue, headaches, often fever, and severe abdominal pain. After 48 hours, things usually improve and the symptoms subside.

Anyone suffering from diarrhea or severe vomiting should spend some time in the bathroom. Whether in a shared apartment or within a family, hygiene is especially important to prevent others from becoming infected. "If someone vomits in the toilet and someone else uses it afterward and doesn't know it, it can easily lead to infection," says Terjung.

It's therefore best for the sick person to clean the toilet themselves after using it. "If someone other than the sick person cleans, they should ideally wear a face mask," advises Terjung. This way, they can protect themselves from infectious aerosols.

Apart from that, the rule is: "Put on gloves and then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, including your arms. And if you have them, use disinfectant." Ideally, you'll have a disinfectant that works against viruses in your cleaning cupboard. And it's best to wear an apron while cleaning so that no viruses stick to your everyday clothes.