Norovirus: What You Need to Know & How to Stay Safe

norovirus

Lately, norovirus cases have been making headlines, and for good reason. This highly contagious virus, often called the "stomach flu" (though it has nothing to do with influenza), can spread rapidly and cause some pretty miserable symptoms. With cases on the rise across the U.S., now is the perfect time to brush up on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What Is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a virus that causes acute gastroenteritis—essentially a sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It spreads like wildfire in places where people are in close quarters, such as schools, cruise ships, and nursing homes. The worst part? It takes only a tiny amount of the virus to make you sick, and it can survive on surfaces for weeks.

Symptoms of Norovirus

If you’ve ever had norovirus, you know how unpleasant it can be. Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last for 1 to 3 days. The most common include:

✔️ Nausea
✔️ Vomiting
✔️ Diarrhea
✔️ Abdominal pain

Other possible symptoms:
➡️ Fever
➡️ Headaches
➡️ Body aches

While most people recover on their own, norovirus can be especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems due to the risk of dehydration.

Why Are Cases Increasing?

According to the CDC, norovirus cases are currently at their highest levels in over a decade. A new strain—GII.17[P17]—may be driving the surge, alongside seasonal patterns and changes in hygiene habits post-COVID. This means it’s more important than ever to take precautions.

How to Protect Yourself from Norovirus

1. Wash Your Hands (Like You Mean It)
🧼 Hand sanitizers do not work well against norovirus! Instead, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or handling food.

2. Be Smart About Food
🥘 Avoid preparing food if you’re sick or for 2-3 days after symptoms stop (you can still spread the virus even if you feel fine).
🦪 Cook shellfish thoroughly—raw or undercooked shellfish can carry norovirus.

3. Disinfect Like a Pro
🧴 Norovirus is tough and can survive many common cleaners. Use a bleach-based disinfectant (5-25 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water) to clean contaminated surfaces—especially high-touch areas like doorknobs, handles, and countertops.

4. Handle Laundry with Care
🧺 If clothing, towels, or linens are contaminated, wash them with hot water and detergent to kill any lingering virus.

5. Stay Home If You're Sick
🏠 If you have norovirus, isolate yourself as much as possible and avoid close contact with others. Even after you feel better, you can still spread the virus for at least 48 hours.

6. Stay Hydrated
💧 Dehydration is a serious risk with norovirus, especially if you're vomiting or have diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.

Boost Your Defenses with the Immune Hack Collection

While good hygiene is your first line of defense against norovirus, strengthening your immune system is just as crucial. Our Immune Hack Collection—featuring Immune Defense Extract, Master Minerals, and Hot Cocoa Colostrum—is designed to help fortify your body’s natural defenses.

Packed with powerful botanicals, essential minerals, and immune-supporting nutrients, this trio works to keep your system resilient, so if you do come into contact with an infected surface or person, your body is better equipped to fight back. Stay proactive, stay protected, and give your immune system the support it deserves!

👉 Explore the Immune Hack Collection here: Immune System Hacks→ 


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