During the winter season, viral infections tend to spread quickly. This is because being indoors reduces air ventilation and increases close contact with others, increasing your chances of picking up a virus during your daily routine. While winter illness season may automatically make you think of congestion or a cough, there are other infections circulating. One common viral infection is norovirus, also commonly called the stomach flu. Norovirus is a contagious viral infection that causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of norovirus and how to treat it.

If you’re feeling sick, AFC Urgent Care West Long Branch can help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day illness treatment for patients in West Long Branch, NJ, and the surrounding communities. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you!

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What Causes Norovirus

Norovirus is an illness that is caused by a viral infection. Much like other viral infections including the flu and common colds, norovirus is extremely contagious. It can spread in multiple different ways including through airborne droplets, lingering on surfaces like doorknobs and faucets, and sharing food and drinks with others. There is no treatment for norovirus, however, most healthy individuals will fight off the infection on their own within a few days.

Norovirus Symptoms

Norovirus is nicknamed the stomach flu because it is viral and causes gastrointestinal symptoms. Although symptoms of norovirus are similar to food poisoning, the main difference is that symptoms of norovirus tend to resolve within a day or two, while food poisoning can last up to 2 weeks. Norovirus is also very contagious, while food poisoning is not contagious.

Symptoms of Norovirus include:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Chills
• Headache
• Stomach cramping
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

Treatment for Norovirus

Norovirus can cause intense symptoms. If you’re experiencing norovirus, you are probably wondering how you can ensure a rapid recovery. If your symptoms are severe and include a high fever of over 105℉ or if your symptoms last more than 48 hours, you should seek urgent medical care. Dehydration is a common complication of norovirus, so if your symptoms are long-lasting you should seek medical care for supportive care to prevent further complications. Individuals who are immunocompromised, young children, the elderly or anyone with underlying health conditions should seek urgent medical care if they’re experiencing norovirus symptoms to prevent complications.

Viral infections like norovirus cannot be treated with medications such as antibiotics. Your body will naturally fight off the infection within a day or two. Staying hydrated as much as possible and getting plenty of rest will help give your body energy to fight off the infection. Never force yourself to eat, because it can further upset your stomach and cause your symptoms to worsen.

Visit AFC West Long Branch for Same-Day Norovirus Symptom Care

If you’re experiencing symptoms of norovirus, it is important to monitor your symptoms. At AFC West Long Branch, we are equipped to provide supportive care for at-risk individuals and anyone experiencing severe symptoms. We are open 7 days a week, including on weekends, to provide prompt care on a walk-in basis. Our medical providers are board-certified and trained to diagnose common conditions like norovirus and provide treatment. Simply walk into the clinic!