Norovirus
Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, often called 'stomach flu' or 'food poisoning.' It leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, causing sudden and unpleasant digestive symptoms. While uncomfortable, it's usually a short-lived illness.
Common symptoms
- Sudden onset of vomiting
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Nausea
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Body aches
Cause
Norovirus is caused by a group of viruses.
How common is it?
Norovirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in the U.S., causing an estimated 19-21 million illnesses annually across all ages. Children are disproportionately affected, with the highest rates in children under 5. Outbreaks are common in daycares, schools, and cruise ships.
Treatment
There's no specific medicine for norovirus. The main goal is to prevent dehydration by offering small, frequent sips of clear fluids like water, oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte), or diluted juice. Avoid sugary drinks, which can worsen diarrhea.
What parents keep on hand
These are everyday supplies parents tell us they like to have on hand, not medical advice. Nothing here diagnoses or treats anything. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance, and check labels for your child's age and weight.
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- Oral rehydration drinks or freezer popsSmall sips keep fluids up when a child refuses to drink.
Pedialyte Electrolyte Powder Packets (Variety Pack)On-the-go powder packets in grape, fruit punch, strawberry, and orange. Mix with water for fast rehydration from the #1 doctor-recommended brand.
Pedialyte Electrolyte Solution Freezer Pops (64ct)Frozen pops with three key electrolytes and four fruit flavors. Great for toddlers who refuse a cup; small sips add up fast.
- Waterproof mattress protectorThe 3am laundry situation is much less bleak with one.
Crib Mattress Protector Pad (quilted, waterproof)Fitted waterproof crib pad with quilted thickness, machine washable, and noiseless. Fits standard 52" x 28" crib and toddler mattresses up to 9" deep.
Margaux & May Crib Mattress Protector (2-pack)Oeko-TEX certified, 100% waterproof fitted protector for standard 28" x 52" cribs. Two-pack means one is always clean; highly absorbent and noiseless.
- Small sick-day bucketKeep one by the bed. You will be glad you did.
FDFuZhao 50-pc kids emesis bags (cartoon pattern)Disposable, leak-proof, self-sealing bags with a fun cartoon print that takes some of the scare out of being sick. About 34 oz / 1000 ml each; twist and notch to seal odors in, then toss.
CLOUDBERG 24-pc emesis bags (1000 ml)Medical-grade, leak-resistant disposable bags with a wide rim and graduated markings. Folds small enough for a glove box or backpack; a calm blue option for older kids and adults too.
- Oral rehydration solutionPlain water is not enough when a child is losing fluids fast.
Prevention
Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food, is crucial. Disinfect contaminated surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner and avoid sharing food or utensils with someone who is sick.
See what's going around
Track Norovirus and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.
Frequently asked questions
Norovirus articles for parents
- December 2025Stomach Bug Alert: Norovirus Spreading in Chicago SchoolsNorovirus outbreaks are hitting Chicago daycares and schools hard this winter. Here's how to prevent it and what to do if it strikes your family.
- October 2025When Should Kids Stay Home from School?Guidelines to help parents make the tough call about keeping sick kids home.
- December 2025Managing School Sick Days: A Chicago Working Parent's Survival GuideWhen your child is sick and you have work, something has to give. Practical strategies for Chicago parents juggling careers and caregiving.
Related illness guides
Medical disclaimer: Educational only. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.